Abstract:
A descriptive cross sectional study was carried out using cluster sampling with probability
proportionate to size. The study instrument consisted of a self administered questionnaire
and the validated Sinhala version of strengths and difficulty questionnaire was used for the
assessment of mental health problems. The prevalence of mental health problems were
higher than the global prevalence and expected WHO values for the post tsunami situation.
Poor relationship between parents. low levels of parental education, absence of a close
person specially mother or father to take advice on day to day circumstances, parents non
support on non -academic activities, distress due to parents enforcement on school activities
were found to be associated with higher percentage of mental health problems in
adolescence. The study identified the importance of urgent identification and treatment of
victims of tsunami who were having persistence psychological problems. It also highlights
the importance of having a school based mental health service with aims of screening and
developing mental well-being at school
