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01-08-2018 | Original Paper

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

Authors: Adesanmi Akinsulore, Olapeju A. Esimai, Boladale M. Mapayi, Olutayo O. Aloba

Published in: Community Mental Health Journal | Issue 6/2018

Abstract

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.

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Title: Public Awareness and Attitude Towards Depression: A Community Based Study Among an Adult Population in Ile-Ife South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Adesanmi Akinsulore
Olapeju A. Esimai
Boladale M. Mapayi
Olutayo O. Aloba
Publication date: 01-08-2018
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Community Mental Health Journal / Issue 6/2018
Print ISSN: 0010-3853
Electronic ISSN: 1573-2789
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-017-0222-8

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

Abstract

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