Students' Demographics and Socialization as Correlates of Their Mental Health

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Mental health refers to a person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how a person thinks, feels, and acts on things around him or her. It likewise helps in determining how one reacts with stress, deals with other people, and decides on what role he or she is going to do in his or her life. It is essential that we value our mental health in every stage of our life. Nevertheless, one cannot avoid experiencing mental health problems that can potentially affect our mood, thoughts, and behavior. According to MentalHealth.gov (2017), many factors could contribute to the presence of mental health problem in a person. These includes biological factors, life experiences, and family history of mental health problems. This research endeavors to explore the factors that influence the mental health state of senior high school students. The findings herein can serve as a basis in developing the appropriate mental health program that is, as well, suitable in addressing the needs of the learners.

METHODS

This study utilized descriptive-correlational research design through the survey method. It was participated by 962 senior high school students from Congressional Integrated High School. Using Beck's Depression Inventory and a self-developed questionnaire, the participants' mental health state and level of socialization, respectively, were determined.

RESULTS

Most of the participants are 17-year old female Grade 11 STEM students belonging to low income earning families. Majority of them live with their immediate family members and currently do not engage in any form of vices. Family is considered as the most influential agent to the participants' socialization. The participants generally have normal mental health state but there are some who report experiencing mild mood disturbance and borderline and moderate forms of depression. Sex is found to be associated to the mental health state of the participants. Socializing though the different agents of socialization significantly improves the mental health state of the participants.

DISCUSSIONS

A health program on mental health for the students may be implemented. The focus of the mental health program should be on gender difference and the importance of socialization in promoting mental health.