Self-reported loneliness in adolescents and its associations with mental disorders in young adulthood

Abstract

Objective: Loneliness is particularly prevalent during adolescence and has been associated with unfortunate effects on both physical and mental health. In this longitudinal study, we investigate if loneliness in adolescents is associated with later prescriptions of antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers and anxiolytics. Prescriptions of psychotropic drugs are used as an indirect measure of mental disorders. Methods: Data on loneliness and potential confounders were obtained from 2602 individuals in the Young in Norway longitudinal study. Data was coupled with the Norwegian Prescription Database, with information about prescriptions of psychotropic drugs from 2007 to 2015. Results: Loneliness among adolescents was prospectively associated with prescriptions of antidepressants (OR = 1.60, CI 95% 1.25-2.06, p = < 0.001) and antipsychotics (OR = 2.33, CI 95% 1.26-4.30, p = 0.007). No association was found between self-reported adolescent loneliness and later prescriptions of mood stabilizers or anxiolytics. Those not receiving prescriptions of psychotropic drugs, had parents with higher education, were more often living with both parents, had less conduct problems and mental distress. Conclusion: In this longitudinal cohort study, self-reported loneliness in adolescents was associated with later prescriptions of antidepressants and antipsychotics, indicating that self-reported adolescent loneliness is associated with later depression and psychotic disorders, and perhaps anxiety. The findings in this study might provide valuable insight into how mental health in young adulthood can be influenced by social factors in adolescence. Loneliness is particularly prevalent in adolescents and has potential negative effects on mental health.