Web Platform for the prevention of anxiety, depression and suicide risk among youth in Tungurahua.

Resumo

The research work arose from the existing problem in Tungurahua, which is related to the high rate of youth suicide, in addition to higher-than-normal levels of anxiety and depression. This project is presented as a technological solution; the general objective was: "To develop a web platform that allows for the electronic assessment of anxiety and depression levels, as well as youth suicide risk, to improve the prevention of these mental illnesses." During the project's implementation, a state-of-the-art report on anxiety, depression, and suicide risk in Latin America was prepared. Subsequently, a survey was conducted in several schools in the province. Students, DECE staff, and principals participated in the research. This research determined that, operationally, it is difficult for DECE to assess hundreds or thousands of students. It was also found that student assessments are not conducted, but only training processes aimed at prevention. It was also noted that the problem continues to grow, and that rapid, remote electronic assessment would be of great help. Finally, the web platform was developed and tested with 120 students from the Instituto España, with favorable results from a technological point of view but worrying from a psychological point of view.