Aware of depression ten years on: The Irish perspective

Author(s): Gavigan, P., Carrick, S.

Journal/Book: Int J Meth Psychiatr Res. 1996; 6: Baffins Lane, Chichester, W Sussex, England PO19 1UD. John Wiley & Sons Ltd. S3-S8.

Abstract: 'Aware' is a self-help group for sufferers of depression in Ireland, providing support for sufferers and their families, raising awareness of depression in the community and sponsoring research into affective disorders. This report describes the results of two major surveys into public perceptions of depression and its treatment. In the first study, about two-thirds of respondents did not regard depression as a mental illness, but also did not see sufferers from depression as weak-willed or feeling sorry for themselves. A similar proportion believed that it is feasible to treat depression successfully. Young women tended to have a more positive view of sufferers than young men, and those living in rural areas tended to view sufferers more positively than urban dwellers. Twenty-five per cent of rural dwellers, but only 15% of people in urban areas, would consult a general practitioner for depression, prompting a second survey investigating this issue in more depth. While 81% of respondents in this second survey recommended that sufferers obtain professional help, only 30% spontaneously identified a general practitioner as the best person to provide it. This result appeared surprising, as respondents rated their general practitioners highly in terms of listening and communication skills and providing adequate time to discuss problems. However, respondents, especially men, were reluctant to consult for personal problems. Changing public perceptions of depression and its sufferers is vital to the overall management of depression in the community.

Note: Article McKeon P, St Patricks Hosp, Depress Res Unit, POB 136, James St, Dublin 8, IRELAND

Keyword(s): depression; public attitudes; general practice; bipolar disorder; support groups

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