JIDAM
"An Official Journal of IDA - Madras
Branch" ©2019.
Available online
Background: Psychological distress, particularly depression, is increasingly prevalent among students and professionals in the healthcare sector in Tamil Nadu. Identifying subthreshold depression and its severity is essential for early intervention and mental health management. Aim: This study aims to assess subthreshold depression and its severity among healthcare students and professionals in Tamil Nadu. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among healthcare students and professionals in Tamil Nadu. Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), which categorizes depression as mild, moderate, or severe, and the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), which classifies scores as normal (<50), mild depression (50–59), moderate to marked major depression (60–69), and severe to extreme major depression (>70). Data were analyzed using the chi-square test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 495 students and professionals participated in the survey. The distribution based on profession included dentists (54.55%), doctors (30.10%), nurses (11.11%), and other healthcare professionals (4.24%). Data were collected and assessed using PHQ-9 and SDS, with statistical analysis performed using the chi-square test. The findings indicated a high prevalence of depressive symptoms among healthcare professionals. Conclusion: The study highlights a significant burden of depression among healthcare students and professionals in Tamil Nadu. Given the demanding nature of the healthcare sector, regular mental health assessments and targeted interventions are necessary to support the well-being of these individuals.
Depression, Healthcare Professionals, Mental Health, PHQ-9, Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale, Psychological Distress
Volume No: 11, Issue No: 2