ABSTRACT
Objective To examine the relationships between a number of potential risk or protective factors and the risk of depression and anxiety among a population of adolescent elite athletes in Guangzhou city. Methods A whole sample was consisted of 520 students,and the information of their age,gender,characteristics and others was investigated. Anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales(HADS). Data were analyzed using multiple stepwise regression analysis. Results After adjusting for other variables,students who had a high risk of anxiety were underweight (sβ =2.482) when compared to those who were of normal weight. Reduced risk of anxiety was associated with older students ( sβ = 4. 365), students with moderate educated mothersβ=3. 153) , and students who perceived very high pressure from teachers/coaches (sβ=5.372). A significant increase in the risk of depression was associated with variables including: students aged between 15 and 16 years(sβ =3.367) ,students who had a family history of chronic diseases (sβ =2.765) , and poor overall support(sβ = 4.365). Reduced risk of depression was associated with students with moderate educated mothers( sβ = 6.764) and students who perceived very high pressure from teachers/coaches(sβ = 4. 167). Conclusion Various risk and protective factors have been identified for anxiety and depression. These results have direct implications on the development of appropriate preventive strategies for mental problems among young elite athletes.