Detecting the Cause of Depression using BECK Depression Scale among Patients

Background: The onset of Depression is a cause of concern. And various factors have been found to spark off this psychological set back among different groups of people.

Aim: This investigation aims to identify various trigger factors causing depression. BECK Depression scale will be the reference to gauge the intensity of depression among psychiatric patients at selected Health care institutions.

Objectives: Identifying and determining the type of trigger factors of depression.

Materials and Methods: Research design: Descriptive and evaluator approximation. Data Collection would be based on ‘BECK’ depression scale, translated in the vernacular language (Marathi) for its utility.

Sampling Technique: Purposive, of the size: 100 participants attending psychiatric OPD primarily diagnosed with depression.

Results: Cause factors of depression include: 1) Family history of mental illness, 2) emotional setback: Death or job lay-off, 3) discriminatory and sexual harassment at work place, 4) Chronic medical challenges and 5) Prolonged drug abuse in the view of physical infirmity. Most of the victims evaluated revealed stress in the background, developed pessimistic approach and un-convivial relationship among family members.

Conclusion: Chronic infirmity requiring, prolonged medical attention, lack of facilities, cost of the treatment, negligence, are the significant factors affecting the Indian rural community.