Adverse childhood experiences and mental health in a low-income setting characterised by silence and taboos: a cross-sectional analysis of hidden trauma in Togolese school-going adolescents (2025)
Cross-sectional analysis shows depressive symptoms in Togo's adolescents linked to adverse childhood experiences, indicating a need for psychosocial support.
Key Points
Mental health issues were prevalent in Togolese adolescents, with depressive symptoms reaching 19.1%.
Adverse childhood experiences significantly heightened the burden of depressive symptoms, with associations noteworthy in girls.
Cross-sectional analysis within the national School Health Survey utilized mixed-effects regression models to assess mental health outcomes.
The findings underscore the necessity for intervention programs to address sociobehavioral factors and integrate trauma-informed care.