Public Awareness and Attitude Towards Depression: A Community Based Study Among an Adult Population in Ile-Ife South-Western Nigeria.

Journal: Community mental health journal

Volume: 54

Issue: 6

Year of Publication: 2019

Affiliated Institutions:  Department of Mental Health, College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. sanmilore@gmail.com. Department of Community Health, College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. Department of Mental Health, College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.

Abstract summary 

Depression has become a global health priority due to its associated burden. However, there is dearth of information regarding the public awareness and attitude towards depression in Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the level of public awareness and attitude towards depression in a semi-urban Nigerian community. A cross-sectional study conducted among 240 respondents with mean age of 34.7 years (± 1.2 years). A questionnaire assessed socio-demographic characteristics, level of awareness and attitude of people towards depression. While most respondents (72.5%) had heard about depression, it was less recognized as a major mental health problem. Also, most respondents (58.6%) had negative attitudes toward depression. There is low level of awareness of depression as a major health problem among community dwellers in South-western Nigeria and negative attitudes towards the illness also appear prevalent. Therefore, awareness should be improved through public health enlightenment programmes.

Authors & Co-authors:  Akinsulore Adesanmi A Esimai Olapeju A OA Mapayi Boladale M BM Aloba Olutayo O OO

Study Outcome 

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Statistics
Citations :  Am J Psychiatry. 1989 Jun;146(6):708-16
Authors :  4
Identifiers
Doi : 10.1007/s10597-017-0222-8
SSN : 1573-2789
Study Population
Male,Female
Mesh Terms
Adult
Other Terms
Attitude;Awareness;Depression;Nigeria;Public
Study Design
Cross Sectional Study
Study Approach
Country of Study
Niger
Publication Country
United States