Coping Strategies and Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety Among Youth in Disadvantaged Urban Areas of South America: A Cross-Sectional Study in Bogotá, Buenos Aires, and Lima

Background Improving mental health among young people in disadvantaged areas is crucial for public health, given the high prevalence of anxiety and depression in these contexts. Objective This study examined the relationship between coping strategies and levels of anxiety and depression in young people from low-income urban neighborhoods in Bogotá, Buenos Aires, and Lima. Methodology A total of 2395 adolescents (15-16 years old) and young adults (20-24 years old) participated. Standardized questionnaires assessed coping strategies, including problem-focused coping, cognitive restructuring, social support seeking, distraction and avoidance. Results Problem-focused coping, cognitive restructuring, and social support seeking were moderately and negatively associated with anxiety and depression, while avoidance and distraction showed a weaker negative association. These findings were consistent across different age and gender groups. Conclusions The results highlight the importance of promoting active and social coping strategies to reduce anxiety and depression among young people in disadvantaged settings. Implementing interventions to strengthen these skills is recommended as part of community mental health programs.