DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AMONG EMERGING ADULTS ATTENDING A GENERAL OUTPATIENT DEPARTMENT IN KENYA

Abstract

Suicide is a global health concern, specifically among the youth. Bio-psychosocial factors, specifically depression, are associated with suicide behaviour and viewed as potential risk indicators. Depression is under detected in general health care settings and arguably adds to the increasing incidence of suicide behaviour. This study describes the incidence and possible association of physiological symptoms and depressive symptoms, within an emerging adult sample, attending a general health care outpatient facility in Kenya. A quantitative study that utilized an interview assisted physiological symptom checklist, and a self-report questionnaire to obtain demographic data and participant responses to Becks Depression Inventory Scale vs. II (BDI II).

Results of this study confirmed common physiological symptoms suggestive of depression to the extent that they appear in current literature. However, total physiological symptoms presented were not as strongly predictive of depression as the single physiological symptom of pain, specifically headache. Trends were suggested between depressive symptoms and; 20/21 age group, cohabiting with partner, university educated, and employed. Screening for depression within general health care facilities is argued to be relevant and recommended. Specifically, physiological symptoms, such as pain, should be recognized as potential indicators of depression, or risk for development of depression. General health care workers need to be trained to use depression screening instruments and mhGAP interventional guidelines for prompt identification and management of depression. It is recommended that all health care practitioners, undergraduate and post graduate programmes to include a mental health care module that emphasizes mental and physical health relationships in order to build capacity within the Kenyan general health care worker population.