CAPABILITIES, DIFFICULTIES, RESILIENCE (SDQ AND CYRM-R), AND HEALTHY HABITS AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN A PUBLIC INSTITUTION IN THE CENTRAL DEPARTMENT

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Mental health problems among adolescents represent a growing public health concern. Early identification of emotional and behavioral symptoms, as well as the investigation of protective factors such as resilience, enables the development of preventive interventions during this stage of development. OBJECTIVE: To describe healthy habits, emotional and behavioral difficulties assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and resilience levels measured using the Child and Youth Resilience Measure–Revised (CYRM-R) among adolescents aged 14 to 18 years attending a public institution in the Central Department. METHODOLOGY: An observational, descriptive study with an analytical component, cross-sectional and prospective in design. Questionnaires addressing sociodemographic variables and healthy habits were administered, alongside the SDQ and CYRM-R, to adolescents aged 14 to 18 years enrolled in a public educational institution in the Central Department, following informed consent. The variables investigated included sociodemographic data, internet use, physical activity, diet, sleep duration and quality, and the results of the instruments administered. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 21. Ethical principles were respected, and the study was approved by an Ethics Committee. Data collection took place from March 2024 to June 2025. No external funding was received. RESULTS: A total of 183 adolescents were included, of whom 57.9% were male, with a mean age of 15.66 ± 1.3 years. Regarding healthy habits, 71% slept 6 to 8 hours per day, 89% had 3 to 5 meals daily, 46.4% participated in sports, and 99.6% accessed the internet daily. Regarding behavioral difficulties, 66.1% did not present problems in this domain, while 47.5% experienced difficulties in peer relationships. Regarding resilience, 78.1% presented a moderate level. CONCLUSION: Most adolescents reported regular eating habits and moderate levels of resilience. However, emotional and behavioral difficulties were identified, reinforcing the importance of early screening and the implementation of mental health promotion strategies in school settings.