PT - JOURNAL ARTICLE AU - Nada A. AlYousefi AU - Mohammed O. AlRukban AU - Abdullah M. AlMana AU - Talal H. AlTukhaim AU - Basel A. AlMeflh AU - Yazeed O. AlMutairi AU - Omar S. AlMogheer TI - Exploring the predictors of depression among Saudi adolescents AID - 10.15537/smj.2021.42.6.20200790 DP - 2021 Jun 01 TA - Saudi Medical Journal PG - 673--681 VI - 42 IP - 6 4099 - http://smj.org.sa/content/42/6/673.short 4100 - http://smj.org.sa/content/42/6/673.full SO - Saudi Med J2021 Jun 01; 42 AB - Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of depression among Saudi adolescents and identify its correlates.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study using a multistage random technique that included students at the intermediate and secondary levels in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used as a tool, in addition to a survey of the potential risk factors. Binary logistic regression was conducted.Results: Out of 960 students, 32.4% were found to have moderate to severe depression. The age group of 16-19 years was more at risk. Female gender and low father’s education level were significant predictors of depression. Less internet use and more physical activity are considered a protective factor against depression, OR -0.531 (95% CI: 0.315-0.894) and OR -0.668 (95% CI: 0.468-0.953), respectively. Whereas the physical abuse, OR 2.047 (95% CI: 1.287-3.255) and emotional abuse, OR 2.576 (95% CI: 1.740-3.813) considered risk factors for depression.Conclusion: The prevalence of depression among Saudi adolescents is worrisome. Urgent and firm actions should be taken in response to the increasing prevalence of depression worldwide.