Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Depression among Housewives: A Cross Sectional Study from Rural Community of Rajasthan, India

Abstract

Introduction: Depression is the leading cause of disease-related disability among women in the world today. Depression is a serious condition that can impact every area of women’s life. It affects social life, family relationships, career, and one’s sense of selfworth and purpose. Objective: To determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of depression among rural housewives aged 18–59 years. Method: A community based cross sectional study was carried out among 414 housewives in rural field practice area of Department of Community Medicine, Jhalawar Medical College, Jhalawar, Rajasthan. Participants were selected by simple random sampling technique. A pre designed semi structured proforma was used for collecting information on socio-demographic characteristics, medical history, family problems, personal history and obstetrical and gynecological history. Assessment of depression was done by using self-reported instrument Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) Results: Out of 414 Housewives, 63 (15.2%) were found to have depression. With increasing education level, there was a declining trend toward depression. Significantly higher rates of depression were observed among housewives reporting any debilitating ailments in one or more family members (31.2%), some unusual events occurred in family in past (56.2%), presence of any addiction in family members (22.7%) and debt on family (58.8%). Marriage at early age, having first pregnancy at early age, more than two children, menstrual irregularities and suffering from unable to conceive or infertility were the biological factors significantly associated with depression. Conclusion: Prevalence of depression was high among housewives in rural community. Many social and biological factors were contributing towards high rate of depression among housewives.