Related Experiment Videos
A help-line for children. Seasonal variations in issues
Gunnar Morken1, Anne Mari Sund, Olav M Linaker
1Østmarka Psychiatric Department, St. Olavs Hospital, Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Box 3008 Lade, N-7441 Trondheim, Norway. Gunnar.Morken@medisin.ntnu.no
Psychiatry Research
|October 19, 2004
Summary
Children and adolescents calling a help-line show seasonal patterns, with more calls in spring and fall. Psychiatric issues peaked in winter, while sexuality concerns correlated with adult birth rates.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Public Health
- Helpline Services Research
Background:
- Help-lines provide crucial support for children and adolescents facing various issues.
- Understanding seasonal trends in helpline usage can inform resource allocation and intervention strategies.
- Previous research has indicated potential seasonal variations in mental health, but specific helpline call data is less explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze monthly variations in the types of issues reported in calls to a children's help-line.
- To identify seasonal patterns and correlations between call content and external factors like daylight changes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 80,983 calls made to a Red Cross Help-Line for children between 1991 and 1997.
- Detailed examination of 22,698 calls with identifiable demographic and issue information.
- Statistical correlation of call frequency and type with monthly changes in daylight hours.
Main Results:
- A distinct monthly variation in call frequency was observed, with peaks in April and November.
- Calls related to psychiatric suffering were more common in January/February and less frequent in May/June and December.
- Conversations about sexuality showed a correlation with adult birth rates approximately nine months later.
- Spring and fall exhibited peaks in overall calling, while winter saw an increase in calls concerning depression, anxiety, pain, and neglect.
Conclusions:
- Help-line usage by children and adolescents demonstrates significant seasonal fluctuations.
- Specific mental health concerns, such as depression and anxiety, are more prevalent during winter months.
- The findings highlight the need for adaptive support systems that account for seasonal influences on youth mental well-being.