A large review of many studies looked at how often anxiety and depression happen in children and teens with inflammatory bowel disease. The researchers combined results from dozens of studies involving over 189,000 young people. They found that anxiety symptoms affect about 12% of these patients, while anxiety disorders affect about 9%.
For depression, the numbers were similar. About 15% of young people with IBD had depressive symptoms, and about 8% had a depressive disorder. The studies included thousands of subjects, giving a good picture of the problem.
The review also found that having IBD is linked to a higher chance of developing anxiety or depression later. Young people with IBD were about twice as likely to develop an anxiety disorder and about 65% more likely to develop a depressive disorder compared to those without IBD. These findings show a strong connection between gut health and mental health in youth.
Because these mental health issues are common, doctors should screen young IBD patients for anxiety and depression. Early help can make a big difference in their overall health and quality of life. The review did not look at specific treatments, but it highlights the need for mental health support as part of IBD care.