EXAMINING MENTAL HEALTH RISKS IN SECONDARY STUDENTS: A STUDY UTILIZING THE STRENGTHS AND DIFFICULTIES QUESTIONNAIRE Adolescent mental health is a topic of increasing concern, as this developmental period is marked by significant changes and heightened vulnerability to mental health challenges. This study delves into the mental health status of 6th and 7th-grade students in two secondary schools in Lien Chieu district, Danang City, Vietnam, with a focus on risk factors for mental disorders and specific sub-domains of mental health manifestations. The research employs the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) to assess the mental well-being of these students comprehensively. The SDQ, a validated tool for evaluating adolescents’ strengths and weaknesses, encompasses five scales: Emotional problems, conduct problems, hyperactivity, peer problems, and pro-social behavior. The study of 6th and 7th-grade students in Lien Chieu district revealed a predominantly stable mental health status among a substantial portion of the student population, with 70.67% categorized as having “No risk” factors for mental disorders. However, a significant proportion exhibited varying levels of risk factors, highlighting the need for tailored interventions and mental health awareness programs within educational settings to support students with diverse mental health needs. Targeted support services are essential for students at different risk levels and across various dimensions of mental health. This study sheds light on the intricate web of adolescent mental health, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to supporting their well-being. By recognizing and addressing varying risk profiles and mental health challenges among students, educational institutions can contribute to creating a nurturing environment that fosters positive mental health outcomes for all adolescents. ASEAN Journal of Psychiatry, Vol. 25 (5) May, 2024; 1-12.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, STRESS AND INTERNET USE AMONG HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS The prevalence of mental health issues among high school students has raised concerns globally, with depression, anxiety, and stress being common challenges. This study investigates the relationship between depression, anxiety, stress, and internet use among high school students in Da Nang, Vietnam. The short Internet Addiction Test (s-IAT) and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) were used to assess internet addiction and mental health symptoms. Data were analyzed using correlation analysis and regression models. Results revealed significant positive correlations between internet use and symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression, highlighting the importance of addressing problematic internet usage patterns. Additionally, associations were found between demographic variables, such as parental occupations and socioeconomic status, and mental health outcomes, emphasizing the interconnected nature of individual, familial, and societal factors. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to promote healthy internet habits and mitigate potential harms among high school students. By understanding the complex interplay between internet use and mental health outcomes, stakeholders can develop effective strategies to support the well-being of adolescents in an increasingly digital world. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the socio-ecological factors shaping adolescent mental health and informs future intervention efforts. ASEAN Journal of Psychiatry, Vol. 25 (6) June, 2024; 1-16.