Common mental disorders and risk factors in rural India: baseline data from the SMART mental health project.

BACKGROUND

About 10% Indians suffer from stress, depression or substance use disorders. Few receive care for these problems, especially in rural areas.

AIMS: As part of a broader initiative to deliver technology-enabled mental health services for rural communities (adults ≥18 years), information was collected about the prevalence of depression, anxiety and suicide risk.

METHOD: The study was conducted in 12 villages in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. Depression and anxiety were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, respectively. Additionally, data were collected about sociodemographic factors and stressful events, among others.

RESULTS

Anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation affected 10.8, 14.4 and 3.5% of participants, respectively (N = 22 377). These were more common among women, and among those who were aged 30-59 years, uneducated, or divorced/ separated/ widowed. Stress due to financial loss was significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The study identified a significant number of people at risk of depression, anxiety and suicide, and needing care.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST: None.