Purpose of review: Global epidemiological data indicate a significant burden of child and adolescent mental health (CAMH) problems. Collating similar data from Asian countries, the majority of which have vast needs but limited resources in CAMH, will help in improving the policy-making, service development and clinical practice.
Recent findings: A nonclinic-based English literature search for epidemiological studies in the past 12-18 months from 51 Asian countries showed the general prevalence of CAMH problems/disorders to be in the range of 10-20%. There was nonuniformity in the instruments used for these studies. The majority of studies did not utilize a second stage of detailed assessment for diagnostic confirmation. Many countries moved from general prevalence of mental health disorders to prevalence of specific mental health disorders. Socioeconomic status, academic achievement and abnormal psychosocial situations most commonly influence CAMH in this population.
Summary: This review highlights the challenges in CAMH epidemiological studies in Asia. Suggestions are made and implications are discussed regarding improving the methodology and bringing in uniformity in such future studies.