Knowledge, attitudes and practice pertaining to depression among primary health care workers in Tanzania
2009

Understanding Depression Among Health Workers in Tanzania

Sample size: 14 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Mbatia Joseph, Shah Ajit, Jenkins Rachel

Primary Institution: Ministry of Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Hypothesis

What are the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding depression among primary health care workers in Tanzania?

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for improved training for primary health care workers in Tanzania to better detect and treat depression.

Supporting Evidence

  • Most health workers felt that rates of depression had increased in recent years.
  • Many believed that life events play a significant role in causing depression.
  • Health workers generally held positive views about treatments for depression.

Takeaway

This study looked at how health workers in Tanzania understand and treat depression, showing they need more training to help patients better.

Methodology

Primary health care workers completed the Depression Attitude Questionnaire to assess their knowledge and attitudes towards depression.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to the convenience sampling method and the specific urban setting.

Limitations

The small sample size and the fact that all participants were from Dar es Salaam limit the generalizability of the results.

Participant Demographics

Participants were primarily aged between 40 and 55 years, with an equal gender distribution.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1752-4458-3-5

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