PREVALENCE OF DEPRESSION AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS IN PATIENTS BELONGING TO LOW SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to find out the prevalence of depression and associated risk factors in patients belonging to low socio-economic status. Material and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Department Psychiatry Nishtar Hospital, Multan from February 2018 to August 2018 over the period of 6 months. A total 200 diagnosed patients of depression were selected for this study and depression & associated risk factors were assessed in selected patients. Results: A total 200 diagnosed patients of depression were taken under study, 24% subjects were male, and 76% subjects were female. Major life trauma was leading cause of depression in 46.5% subjects, social failure in 22.5% subjects, marital conflicts in 19.5% subjects and financial problems in 11.5% subjects. Most of the patients presenting to psychiatric outpatient department were from low socio-economic status with age group of 18-65 years. Conclusions: The findings of present study suggest that depression was more frequent in females than males. Major life trauma being the most prevalent psychosocial risk factor. Key Words: Depression, psychosocial, socioeconomic stressors, traumatic events.