Bullying victimization and mental health outcomes of adolescents in Myanmar, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka

The objective of this study was to examine the association between bullying victimization and symptoms of depression among adolescents in Myanmar, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Little is known about adolescents’ bullying victimization and its ramifications in South Asia. Given that children's rights remain low amidst taboo surrounding their mental health issues that prevent parents from seeking help for their children, there is a need to understand the link between the two. Data from the Global School-Based Student Health Survey (GSHS) from Pakistan, Sri-Lanka, and Myanmar were analyzed. The GSHS is conducted using standardized sampling and survey methodology procedures. The association between experiences of bullying and depressive symptoms was estimated by computing unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios. Results indicate that adolescents who were bullied were significantly more likely to report symptoms of depression in all three countries. Findings support those from other regions suggesting that adolescents are at higher risk of developing depressive symptoms when they experience bullying, highlighting the need for resources, including policy and infrastructure, to address both bullying and mental health issues in the region.