Archives of Iranian Medicine
Volume:20 Issue: 10, Nov 2017

The main objective of this study was to compare the results of mental health surveys on adult populations of all provinces in Iran, between 1999 and 2015.
This study was an overview of two cross-sectional, descriptive studies that were performed in 1999 and 2015. The study population of these two studies consisted of urban and rural residents of all provinces in Iran. Samples were recruited by systematic random cluster sampling. In both studies, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) was used to assess mental health status of respondents. Trained psychologists completed questionnaires, and data were analyzed using SPSS software-18.
The results showed that in the survey of 1999, 21% of participants suffered from mental disorders (25.9% of females and 14.9% of males). In the survey of 2015, 23.4% of samples were suspected of having mental disorders (27.6% of females and 19.3% of males). The prevalence of mental disorders increased from 1999 to 2014 by about 1.12 fold (1.06 fold in females and 1.3 fold in males). In the survey of 1999, rural residents were more at risk of mental disorders, while in the survey of 2015, urban residents were more prone to mental disorders. In both studies, the risk of suspicion for mental disorders increased with increasing age, and was higher in people aged 65 and above, as well as widowed, divorced and illiterate individuals.
The results of this study showed an increase in suspected cases of mental disorders in Iran from 1999 to 2015. 7

The main objective of this study was to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Alborz in the year 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Alborz province in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. Access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Karaj, Mohammad Abad, and Nazar Abad cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. The analysis of data in the current study was carried out using SPSS-18 software
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 19% of individuals (23.8% of females and 14.1% males) were suspected for mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected cases of mental disorders was 21.3% in urban and 13.8% in rural areas. It also showed that somatization and anxiety symptoms were more prevalent than social dysfunction and depression symptoms, and were more common in women than men. The results of this research also showed that the prevalence of suspected cases of mental disorders increased with aging. Such disorders were more common in females, age groups of 65 and above, people living in urban areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate and unemployed individuals compared with other groups.
The results of this study showed that about one fifth of people in the province are suspected for mental disorders. Therefore, it is mandatory for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps to ensure that necessary requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health are implemented.

The main objective of this study was to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Ardebil in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Ardebil province in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people were chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. Access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Ardebil, Pars abad and Germi cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. Data analysis in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 21.4% of individuals (26.3% of females and 16.5% of males) were suspected of mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected cases of mental disorders was 20.8% in urban and 22.8% in rural areas. The results also showed that somatization and anxiety symptoms were more prevalent than social dysfunction and depression symptoms, and were more common in women than men. The results of this research also showed that the prevalence of suspected cases of mental disorders increased with aging. Such disorders were more common in females, age group of 65 and above, people living in rural areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate and unemployed individuals compared with other groups.
The results of this study showed that about one fifth of people in the province were suspected of mental disorders. Therefore, it is mandatory for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps to ensure that necessary requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health are implemented

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Bushehr in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Bushehr province in Iran. Through systematic random cluster sampling, 1200 individuals were selected from the residents of urban and rural areas of Bushehr, Deilam and Borazjan. The 28-item version of the General Health Questionnaire was applied as the screening tool. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 18.0 for windows.
The results of this study showed that using the traditional scoring method, 23.4% of the subjects (29% of females and 14.7% of males) were suspected of mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected psychiatric disorders in rural areas (24.5%) was more than the prevalence of these disorders in urban areas (22.8%). The prevalence of suspected anxiety and the somatization of symptoms was higher than the prevalence of social dysfunction and depression, and the prevalence of these components was higher in women than men. The findings of this study also showed that the prevalence of suspected cases of mental disorders increased significantly with age. The prevalence of suspected cases of these disorders was higher among females, the age group of 65 and older, people living in rural areas, divorced and widowed, students and primary and secondary education than other groups.
The results of this study show that more than one fourth of the sample were suspected of mental disorders, and the prevalence of these disorders has increased from 21.3% in 1999 to 23.4% in 2015. Therefore, it seems necessary for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps for providing requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health in this area.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Shahre Kord, Farsan and Farrokhshar cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. The analysis of data in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 24.9% of the subjects were at risk of mental disorders (26.8% of females and 23% of males). Urban areas (27.1%) were more at risk of mental disorders compared with rural residents (19.1%). Anxiety and somatization symptoms were more frequent than depression and social dysfunction among respondents. The obtained data revealed that the prevalence of mental disorders increased with age. The results also indicated that mental disorders were more common in certain subgroups, in particular females, people aged 65 years and above, the divorced and widowed, illiterate and unemployed adults.
Our findings suggest that one fourth of the participants are at risk of developing mental disorders. Although the prevalence of these disorders has decreased from 39.1% to 24.9% between 1999 and 2015, it is still of great importance to further promote mental health policies and advocate psychological welfare of those suffering from mental disorders along with their re-empowerment.

The main objective of this study was to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of East Azarbaijan in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of East Azarbaijan in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Tabriz, Sarab and Marand cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. The analysis of data in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 24.9% of the studied population (29.9% of the women and 20.1% of the men) were considered as likely cases. The prevalence rate of mental disorders was 23.1% for rural and 25.7% for urban areas. Prevalence rates of somatization and anxiety were higher than social dysfunction and depression and women revealed higher prevalence for these disorders compared with men. It was also shown that the prevalence rate significantly increased with age and was higher in women, people aged 65 and above, urban residents, widowed or divorced, illiterate, unemployed and housewives people.
The results of this study showed that about a quarter of the people in the province were suspected to have mental disorders. Comparing the results of the current survey with those of the study conducted in 1999 suggests that the prevalence of mental disorders is on the decrease in this province (from 25.2% in 1999 to 24.9% in 2015). Therefore, it seems vital that the officials take action in order to improve and maintain mental health status of the people who are at risk.

The main objective of this study was to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Fars in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Fars in Iran. Through systematic random cluster sampling, 1200 individuals were selected from the residents of urban and rural areas of Shiraz, Jahrom and Kazeroun. The 28-item version of the General Health Questionnaire was applied as the screening tool. The data were analyzed using SPSS, version 18.0 for windows.
This study showed that using the traditional scoring method, 22.5% of the subjects (26.9% of females and 18% of males) were suspected of having mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected psychiatric disorders in urban areas (24.3%) was more than the prevalence of these disorders in rural areas (18.6%). The prevalence of suspected anxiety and the somatization of symptoms was higher than the prevalence of social dysfunction and depression, and the prevalence of these components was higher in women than men. The findings of this study also showed that the prevalence of suspected mental disorders increased significantly with age. The prevalence of suspected cases of these disorders was higher among women, the age group of 65 and older, people living in urban areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate, and retired compared to other groups.
The results of this study show that more than a fourth of the sample were suspected of mental disorders, and the prevalence of these disorders has decreased from 22.9% in 1999 to 22.5% in 2015. Therefore, it seems necessary for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps for providing requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health in this area.

The main objective of this study was to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Gilan in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Fars in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Rasht, Fouman, and Hashtpar cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. The analysis of data in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 18% of the studied population (19.3% of the females and 16.6% of the males) were considered as likely cases. The prevalence rate of mental disorders was 18.7% for urban and 17.7% for rural areas. Prevalence rates of somatization and anxiety were higher than social dysfunction and depression and women revealed higher prevalence for these disorders compared with men. It was also shown that the prevalence rate significantly increased with age and was higher in women, people aged 65 and above, urban residents, widowed or divorced, illiterate, and unemployed people.
The results of this study showed that about a fifth of the people in the province are suspected to have mental disorders. Comparing the results of the current survey with those of the study conducted in 1999 suggests that the prevalence of mental disorders is on the decrease in this province (from 25.2% in 1999 to 18% in 2015). Therefore, it seems vital that the officials take action in order to improve and maintain mental health status of the people who are at risk.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Golestan in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Golestan province in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Gorgan, Gonbad-e-Qabus, and Aqqala cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. The analysis of data in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 computer software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 12.8% of the subjects showed to be at risk of mental disorders (13.3% of females and 12.3% of males). Urban areas (13%) were more at risk of mental disorders compared with rural residents (12.3%). Anxiety and somatization symptoms were more frequent than depression and social dysfunction among respondents. The obtained data revealed that the prevalence of mental disorders increased with age. The results also indicated that mental disorders were more common in certain subgroups, in particular women, those aged 65 years and above, the divorced and widowed, illiterate and retired adults.
Our findings suggest that one eighth of the participants were at risk of developing mental disorders. Although the prevalence of these disorders has decreased from 39.1% to 12.8% between 1999 and 2015, it is still of great importance to further promote mental health policies and advocate psychological welfare of those suffering from mental disorders along with their re-empowerment.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Hamadan in 2015.
This cross-sectional survey was performed among 1,200 individuals aged 15 years and older, living in urban and rural areas of the three cities of Hamedan, Asadabad, and Malayer. Individuals were enrolled in the study by clustered and systematic randomization. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28), was used for screening for common mental disorders. Those scoring above the cut-off point of the GHQ-28 were considered to be suffering from at least one mental disorder. Data was analyzed using the SPSS-18 software.
This study showed that using the traditional scoring method, 30.7% of the subjects (31.4% of females and 29.9% of males) were suspected of having mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected psychiatric disorders in urban areas (32.8%) was higher than the prevalence of these disorders in rural areas (25.3%). The prevalence of suspected anxiety and the somatization of symptoms was higher than the prevalence of social dysfunction and depression, and the prevalence of these components was higher in women than men. The findings of this study also showed that the prevalence of suspected mental disorders increased significantly with age. The prevalence of suspected cases of these disorders among women, the age group of 65 and older, people living in urban areas, divorced and widowed, primary and secondary, and unemployed people was higher than other groups.
The results of this study show that about one third of the sample are suspected of mental disorders, and the prevalence of these disorders has decreased from 34.7% in 1999 to 30.7% in 2015. Therefore, it is mandatory for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps to ensure that necessary requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health are implemented.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Hormozgan in 2015.
This cross-sectional field study was conducted on the residents of both urban and rural areas of the Hormozgan province. Through systematic random cluster sampling, 1200 individuals were selected from the residents of urban and rural areas of Bandar Abbas, Bandar Lengeh and Minab. The 28-item version of the General Health Questionnaire was applied as the tool of screening. The data were analyzed using SPSS, version 18.0 for windows.
This study indicates that using the traditional scoring method, 28.2% of study population are highly suspicious for psychiatric disorders (35.4% of females and 21.1% of males). The prevalence of probable psychiatric disorders in urban areas (28.9%) was higher than rural areas (26.5%). The prevalence of probable somatization and anxiety was higher than the prevalence of social dysfunction and depression, and also the prevalence of these disorders was higher in women. The findings of this study show that the prevalence of probable psychiatric disorders has a direct relationship with increasing age and the prevalence of such disorders is higher in women, urban residents, individuals aged more than 65 years, divorced and widowed individuals, illiterate, housewives and unemployed people.
The results of this study show that 28.2% of study population (more than a fourth) are suspicious for psychiatric disorders, and the prevalence of these disorders increased from 22.9% in 1999 to 28.2% in 2015. So, health authorities in this province have to do their best for provision, maintenance and improvement of mental health.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Ilam in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Ilam in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Ilam, Dehloran and Eyvan cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. The analysis of data in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 32.4% of individuals (37% of females, and 28.1% of males) were likely to have a mental disorder. The prevalence of suspected cases of mental disorders was 33% in urban and 31% in rural areas. The prevalence of mental disorders was higher in females, people living in urban areas, those aged 65 years and above, divorced or widowed, illiterate, and the retired compared to other groups. In addition, the prevalence increased with age. The prevalence of anxiety and somatization symptoms was higher than social dysfunction and depression. Moreover, the prevalence of these symptoms was higher in females than males.
Almost one third of the samples were likely to have a mental disorder. Therefore, the provincial authorities and health providers should take essential steps for providing and maintaining mental health services to promote community mental health.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Isfahan in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Isfahan in Iran. Through systematic random cluster sampling, 1200 individuals were selected from the residents of urban and rural areas of Isfahan, Kashan and Shahin shahr. The 28-item version of the General Health Questionnaire was applied as the screening tool. The data were analyzed using SPSS, version 18.0 for windows.
This study showed that using the traditional scoring method, 30.6% of the subjects (38.5% of females and 22.5% of males) were suspected of having mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected psychiatric disorders in urban areas (32.1%) was higher than the prevalence of these disorders in rural areas (27%). The prevalence of suspected anxiety and the somatization of symptoms was higher than the prevalence of social dysfunction and depression, and the prevalence of these components in women was higher than men. The findings of this study also showed that the prevalence of suspected mental disorders increased significantly with age. The prevalence of suspected cases of these disorders among women, the age group of 65 and older, people living in urban areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate, and housewives was higher than other groups.
The results of this study show that more than one third of the sample are suspected of mental disorders, and the prevalence of these disorders has increased from 21.3% in 1999 to 30.6% in 2015; therefore, it is up to the authorities and health managers of the province to take the basic steps to supply, maintain, and preserve the mental health of those in need and promote the mental health of the community.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Kerman in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Kerman in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Kerman, Jiroft and Bam cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. The analysis of data in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 18.8% of the subjects showed to be at risk of mental disorders (22.9% of females and 14.8% of males). Urban areas (20.2%) were more at risk of mental disorders compared with rural residents (16%). Anxiety and somatization symptoms were more frequent than depression and social dysfunction among respondents. The obtained data revealed that the prevalence of mental disorders increased with age. The results also indicated that mental disorders were more common in certain subgroups; in particular women, those aged 65 years and above, the divorced and widowed, illiterate and unemployed adults.
The results of this study showed that one fifth of the samples were suspected of psychiatric disorders and the prevalence of these disorders has decreased from 22.9% in 1999 to 18.8% in 2015; so, it is on the authorities and health managers of the province to maintain the essential elements for continuity of mental health services to people with mental disorders.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Kermanshah in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Kermanshah in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen in three clusters: Kermanshah, Islamabad-e-Gharb, and Sonqor by using the systematic random sampling method. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for evaluation of status for mental disorders. The traditional method for scoring of GHQ-28 was used in this study. Data analysis was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Response rate for the study was 97.83%. The results showed that 26.2% of individuals (29.4% of females and 23% of males) were suspected to suffer from mental disorder, in total. The prevalence of being suspected of mental disorders was 28.9% in urban and 19.7% in the rural areas. Somatization and anxiety symptoms were more prevalent than social dysfunction and depression symptoms and were more common in women than men. The results of this research also showed that the prevalence of being suspected of mental disorders increased with aging. Suspicion for these disorders was more common in females, those aged ≥65, people living in urban areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate, housewives and unemployed individuals compared with the other groups.
This study showed that more than a quarter of the people in Kermanshah province were suspected to have mental disorders. These findings mandate further attention in the province health policy and program planning for prevention and promotion of mental health.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Khouzestan in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Khouzestan in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Ahvaz, Imam khomeini Bandar, and Shooshtar cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. Data analysis in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, 21.8% of the subjects were shown to be at risk of mental disorders (26.2% of females and 23% of males). Urban areas (27.1%) were more at risk of mental disorders compared with rural residents (16.8%). The prevalence of suspected cases of mental disorders in urban areas (25.4%) was higher than rural areas (13.4 %). Anxiety and somatization symptoms were more frequent than depression and social dysfunction among respondents. The obtained data revealed that the prevalence of mental disorders increased with age. Such disorders were more common in females, age group of 65 and above, people living in rural areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate, housewives and unemployed individuals compared with the other groups.
The results of this study showed that about a fourth of the people in the province were suspected to have mental disorders and the prevalence of these disorders has increased from 21.3% in 1999 to 21.8% in 2015. Therefore, it is mandatory for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps to ensure that necessary requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health are implemented.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Kohghilouyeh and Bouyerahmad in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Kohghilouyeh and Bouyerahmad in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Yasuj, Dogonbadan, and Dehdasht cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as a screening tool for mental disorders. Data analysis in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 16.9% of the subjects showed to be at risk of mental disorders (20.1% of females and 13.4% of males). Urban areas (18.3%) were more at risk of mental disorders compared with rural residents (13.9%). Anxiety and somatization symptoms were more frequent than depression and social dysfunction among respondents. The obtained data revealed that the prevalence of mental disorders increased with age. The results also indicated that mental disorders were more common in certain subgroups; in particular women, those aged 65 years and above, the divorced and widowed, illiterate and retired adults.
Our findings suggest that one sixth of the participants are at risk of developing mental disorders. Although the prevalence of these disorders has decreased from 26.2% to 16.9% between 1999 and 2015, it is still of great importance to further promote mental health policies and advocate psychological welfare of those suffering from mental disorders along with their re-empowerment.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Kordestan in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Kordestan in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Sanandaj, Divandareh and Bijar cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as a screening tool for mental disorders. Data analysis in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
With the traditional scoring method used, 30.4% of the participants (38.1% of women and 22.9% of men) were suspected of having mental disorders. The suspected prevalence of mental disorder was higher in urban (32.5%) than rural areas (25.3%). The suspected prevalence of somatic symptoms and anxiety was greater than the suspected prevalence of social dysfunction and depression, and these disorders were more prevalent in women than men. The findings also showed that the suspected prevalence of mental disorder increased with age. The suspected prevalence of these disorders was higher in women, urban residents, the over 65 age group, the divorced and widowed subjects, the illiterate, the retired and the housewives compared to the other groups.
The present findings showed that almost a third of the samples were suspected of mental disorder, and the prevalence of these disorders had increased from 21.8% in 1999 to 30% in 2015. The health authorities of the province should therefore take the necessary measures to protect and treat people with mental disorders and promote mental health in the community

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Markazi in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Markazi in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Arak, Delijan, and Saveh cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as a screening tool for mental disorders. Data analysis in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 computer software.
This study showed that using the traditional scoring method, 25.1% of the subjects (31% of females and 18.9% of males) were suspected of having mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected psychiatric disorders in urban areas (25.2%) was higher than the prevalence of these disorders in rural areas (24.8%). The prevalence of suspected anxiety and the somatization of symptoms was higher than the prevalence of social dysfunction and depression, and the prevalence of these components was higher in women than men. The findings of this study also showed that the prevalence of suspected mental disorders increased significantly with age. The prevalence of suspected cases of these disorders among women, the age group of 65 and older, people living in urban areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate, and housewives people was higher than other groups.
The results of this study show that more than one fourth of the sample were suspected of mental disorders, and the prevalence of these disorders has increased from 18.6% in 1999 to 25.1% in 2015. Therefore, it is mandatory for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps to ensure that necessary requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health are implemented.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Mazandaran in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Mazandaran in Iran. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Sari, Babol, and Tonekabon cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. Data analysis in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 17% of the studied population (21% of females and 13% of males) were considered as likely cases. The prevalence rate of mental disorders was 19.8% for urban and 15.8% for urban areas. Prevalence of somatization and anxiety was higher than social dysfunction and depression and women revealed higher prevalence for these disorders compared to men. It was also shown that the prevalence rate significantly increased with age and was higher in women, people aged 45-64 years, urban residents, widowed or divorced, illiterate, and unemployed people.
The results of this study showed that about a sixth of the people in the province are suspected to have mental disorders. Comparing the results of the current survey with those of the study conducted in 1999 suggests that the prevalence of mental disorders has increased in this province (from 12.3% in 1999 to 17% in 2015). Therefore, it seems vital for the officials to take action in order to improve and maintain mental health status of the people who are at risk.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of North Khorasan in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of North Khorasan in Iran. Through systematic random cluster sampling, 1200 individuals were selected from the residents of urban and rural areas of of Bojnourd, Sfaraien and Shirvan. The 28-item version of the General Health Questionnaire was applied as the screening tool. The data were analyzed using SPSS, version 18.0 for windows.
This study showed that using the traditional scoring method, 22.2% of the subjects (28% of females and 16.4% of males) were suspected of mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected psychiatric disorders in urban areas (23.9%) was higher than the prevalence of these disorders in rural areas (18.3%). The prevalence of suspected anxiety and the somatization of symptoms was higher than the prevalence of social dysfunction and depression, and the prevalence of these components was higher in women than men. The findings of this study also showed that the prevalence of suspected mental disorders increased significantly with age. The prevalence of suspected cases of these disorders was higher among women, the age group of 65 and older, people living in urban areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate, and retired people compared to the other groups.
The results of this study show that more than one fifth of the sample were suspected of mental disorders. Therefore, health authorities and administrators need to take the principle measures to ensure and maintain the mental health of individuals as well as the evaluation and treatment of patients with mental disorders.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Qazvin in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Qazvin in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Qazvin, Alvand, Mohammadieh and Abhar cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. Data analysis in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, 25.8% of the subjects were shown to be at risk of mental disorders (29.5% of females and 22.1% of males). Urban areas (27%) were more at risk of mental disorders compared with rural residents (23.3%). Anxiety and somatization symptoms were more frequent than depression and social dysfunction among respondents. The obtained data revealed that the prevalence of mental disorders increased with age. These disorders were more common in females, age group of 65 and above, people living in rural areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate and unemployed individuals compared with the other groups.
The results of this study showed that about a fourth of the people in the province were suspected to have mental disorders. Therefore, it is mandatory for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps to ensure that necessary requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health are implemented.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Qom in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Qom in Iran. An estimated sample size of 600 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Qom city. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. Data analysis in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 computer software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, 16.2% of the subjects were shown to be at risk of mental disorders (19.7% of females and 12.6% of males). Urban areas (17%) were more at risk of mental disorders compared with rural residents (6.5%). Anxiety and somatization symptoms were more frequent than depression and social dysfunction among respondents. The obtained data revealed that the prevalence of mental disorders increased with age. Such disorders were more common in females, age group of 65 and above, people living in rural areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate, retired and unemployed individuals compared with the other groups.
The results of this study showed that a sixth of the people in the province were suspected to have mental disorders. Therefore, it is mandatory for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps to ensure that necessary requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health are implemented. .

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Razavi Khorasan in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Razavi Khorasan in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Mashhad, Torbate Jam and Sabzavar cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. Data analysis in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 23.7% of individuals (26.9% of females and 20.6% of males) were suspected of mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected cases of mental disorders was 23.6% in urban and 23.8% in rural areas. It was also shown that somatization and anxiety symptoms were more prevalent than social dysfunction and depression symptoms, and were more common in women than men. The results of this research also showed that the prevalence of suspected cases of mental disorders increased with aging. Such disorders were more common in females, people living in rural areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate, housewives and retired individuals compared with the other groups.
The results of this study showed that about a fourth of the people in the province were suspected to have mental disorders and the prevalence rate of mental disorders increased from 7.7% in 1999 to 23.7% in 2015. Therefore, it is mandatory for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps to ensure that necessary requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health are implemented.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Semnan in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Semnan province in Iran. Through systematic random cluster sampling, 1200 individuals were selected from the residents of urban and rural areas of Semnan, Garmsar and Shahroud. The 28-item version of the General Health Questionnaire was applied as the screening tool. The data were analyzed using SPSS, version 18.0 for windows.
This study showed that using the traditional scoring method, 14.5% of the subjects (15.8% of females and 13.1% of males) were suspected of having mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected psychiatric disorders in urban areas (15.5%) was higher than the prevalence of these disorders in rural areas (12.1%). The prevalence of suspected anxiety and the somatization of symptoms was higher than the prevalence of social dysfunction and depression, and the prevalence of these components was higher in women than in men. The findings of this study also showed that the prevalence of suspected mental disorders increased significantly with age. The prevalence of suspected cases of these disorders was higher among women, the age group of 65 and older, people living in urban areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate, and unemployed people than the other groups.
The results of this study showed that about a sixth of the people in the province were suspected to have mental disorders. Therefore, it is mandatory for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps to ensure that necessary requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health are implemented.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Sistan and Baluchestan in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of Sistan and Baluchestan province in Iran. An estimated sample size of 1200 people was chosen using systematic random cluster sampling. The access was provided by the contribution of Geographical Post Office of Zahedan, Zabol, and Saravan cities. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used as the screening tool for mental disorders. Data analysis in the current study was carried out using the SPSS-18 software.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 15.1% of individuals (17.2% of females and 13% of males) were suspected of mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected cases of mental disorders was 19% in urban and 13.5% in rural areas. It also showed that somatization and anxiety symptoms were more prevalent than social dysfunction and depression symptoms, and were more common in women than men. The results of this research also showed that the prevalence of suspected cases of mental disorders increased with aging. Such disorders were more common in females, age group of 65 and above, people living in urban areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate and retired individuals compared with the other groups.
The results of this study showed that about a sixth of the people in the province were suspected to have mental disorders. Therefore, it is mandatory for the provincial public health authorities to take the needed steps to ensure that necessary requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health are implemented.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of South Khorasan in 2015.
The statistical population of this cross-sectional field survey consisted of residents of urban and rural areas of South Khorasan in Iran. Through systematic random cluster sampling, 1200 individuals were selected from the residents of urban and rural areas of Birjand, Ghayen and Ferdows cities. The 28-item version of the General Health Questionnaire was applied as the screening tool. The data were analyzed using SPSS, version 18.0 for windows.
Based on GHQ traditional scoring method, this study showed that 17.1% of the respondents (20% of women and 14.1% of men) were suspected of having mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected individuals for mental disorders was higher in urban areas (18.2%) than rural areas (14.5%). It was also shown that the prevalence of anxiety and somatization symptoms was higher than social dysfunction and depression symptoms, and women revealed higher prevalence for these disorders compared with men. The findings of this study also indicated that the prevalence of suspected cases for mental disorders increased with age. The prevalence of suspected cases of these disorders was higher in women aged 65 and over, divorced, widowed, uneducated and the retired compared to the other groups.
The results of this study show that one sixth of the sample population were suspected of mental disorders; therefore, health authorities and administrators need to take the principled measures to ensure and maintain the mental health of individuals as well as the evaluation and treatment of patients with mental disorders.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Tehran in 2015.
This cross-sectional survey was performed on 1,200 individuals aged fifteen years and older, living in urban, and rural areas of the three main districts of Tehran, Shahriar, and Nasimshahr of Tehran Province. Individuals were enrolled in the study by clustered and systematic randomization. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was used for screening for common mental disorders. Those scoring above the cut-off point of the GHQ-28 were considered to be suffering from at least one mental disorder. All data was analyzed using the SPSS-18 software.
According to our data, 30.2% of the subjects (34.2% of females and 26.4% of males) were suspected of having mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected psychiatric disorders in urban areas (35.1%) was higher than the prevalence of these disorders in rural areas (18.2%). Scoring above the cut-off point of the GHQ-28 also had a positive correlation with age, especially among those aged 65 years old and above. Somatization and also symptoms of anxiety were more prevalent than social dysfunction and depressive symptoms, and also more prevalent among females compared to males. Being suspected of a mental disorder was also more prevalent among those who had been divorced, widowed, unemployed, and having post-graduate university education
The results of this study show that about one third of our sample population were suspected of suffering from a mental disorder. The prevalence of common mental disorders has increased from 21.2% in 1999 to 31.7% in 2015. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that public health authorities put more effort to ensure necessary requirements encompassing prevention and promotion of mental health of the Iranian population residing in Tehran province.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of West Azarbaijan in 2015.
This cross-sectional field study was conducted on the residents of both urban and rural areas of the West Azarbaijan province. Through systematic random cluster sampling, 1200 individuals were selected from the residents of urban and rural areas of Urumia, Salmas and Mahabad. The 28-item version of the General Health Questionnaire was applied as the screening tool. The data were analyzed using SPSS, version 18.0 for windows.
Using GHQ traditional scoring method, the results showed that 24% of individuals (29.1% of females and 18.7% of males) were suspected of mental disorders. The prevalence rate of mental disorders was 19.8% for rural and 25.8% for urban areas. Prevalence of somatization and anxiety was higher than social dysfunction and depression and women revealed higher prevalence for these disorders compared with men. It was also shown that the prevalence rate significantly increased with age and was higher in women, people aged 65 and above, urban residents, widowed or divorced, illiterate, housewives, unemployed and retired people
The results of this study showed that about a quarter of the people in the province were suspected to have mental disorders. Comparing the results of the current survey with those of the study conducted in 1999 suggests that the prevalence of mental disorders is on the increase in this province (from 13.5% in 1999 to 24% in 2015). Therefore, it seems vital that the officials take action in order to improve and maintain mental health status of the people who are at risk.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Yazd in 2015.
This cross-sectional field study was conducted on the residents of both urban and rural areas of the Yazd province. Through systematic random cluster sampling, 1200 individuals were selected from the residents of urban and rural areas of Yazd, Ardekan and Meybod. The 28-item version of the General Health Questionnaire was applied as the screening tool. The data were analyzed using SPSS, version 18.0 for windows.
This study indicates that through traditional scoring method, 26.7% of study population were highly suspicious for psychiatric disorders (32.1% of females and 21.4% of males). The prevalence of probable psychiatric disorders in urban areas (28.7%) was higher than the prevalence in rural areas (21.3%). The prevalence of probable somatization and anxiety was higher than the prevalence of social dysfunction and depression, and also the prevalence of these disorders was higher in women. The findings of this study show that the prevalence of probable psychiatric disorders has a direct relationship with increasing age and the prevalence of such disorders is higher in women, urban residents, individuals aged more than 65, divorced and widowed individuals, illiterate and unemployed people.
The results of this study show that more than one quarter of study population were suspicious for psychiatric disorders and the prevalence of these disorders increased from 11.8% to 26.7% since 1999. So, health authorities in this province have to do their best for provision, maintenance and improvement of mental health.

This research aims to determine the mental health status of population aged 15 and over in the province of Zanjan in 2015.
This cross-sectional field study was conducted on the residents of both urban and rural areas of the Zanjan province. Through systematic random cluster sampling, 1200 individuals were selected from the residents of urban and rural areas of of Zanjan, Abhar and Qeydar. The 28-item version of the General Health Questionnaire was applied as the screening tool. The data were analyzed using SPSS, version 18.0 for windows.
This study showed that using the traditional scoring method, 28.5% of the subjects (32.9% of females and 24.2% of males) were suspected of having mental disorders. The prevalence of suspected psychiatric disorders in urban areas (30%) was higher than the prevalence of these disorders in rural areas (24.8%). The prevalence of suspected anxiety and the somatization of symptoms was higher than the prevalence of social dysfunction and depression, and the prevalence of these components was higher in women than men. The findings of this study also showed that the prevalence of suspected mental disorders increased significantly with age. The prevalence of suspected cases of these disorders was higher among women, the age group of 65 and older, people living in urban areas, divorced and widowed, illiterate, and retired individuals compared to the other groups.
The results of this study show that more than one quarter of the sample (28.5%) were suspected of mental disorders, and the prevalence of these disorders has increased from 21.3% in 1999 to 28.5% in 2015. Therefore, it is up to the authorities and health managers of the province to take the basic steps to supply, maintain, and preserve the mental health of those in need and promote the mental health of the community.