This study delves into the realms of Afghan school adolescents’ quality of life, as defined by the World Health Organization, with a focus on the physical and mental aspects. Conducted in Herat province, involving 545 participants from various public schools, the findings paint a concerning picture. Almost half of the adolescents reported poor quality of life on the physical component, while an alarming two-thirds faced challenges on the mental front. Economic status and place of residency emerged as significant factors influencing the physical component score. These revelations underline the urgent need for targeted early interventions to identify and support students at risk of mental health issues, ensuring access to timely medical treatments for a healthier and more resilient adolescent population.