Perception of Depression and Anxiety among Women in Santhia, Pabna

Abstract

Background: Depression and anxiety are common mental health problems that affect women’s emotional well-being, daily functioning, and quality of life. In rural communities, limited awareness, poor mental health literacy, and lack of access to services may influence women’s perception of these conditions.  Objective(s): To assess the perception of depression and anxiety among women in Santhia, Pabna.  Materials and methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 280 women in Santhia, Pabna. Data were collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire through face-to-face interviews. The questionnaire included items on sociodemographic characteristics, awareness, knowledge, perceived impact, perceived causes, beliefs about treatment, and awareness of mental health services. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests to determine associations between selected sociodemographic variables and perception-related scores.  Results: Among the respondents, 80.0% were aware of depression and 75.0% were aware of anxiety. Most participants (40.0%) were somewhat knowledgeable, while 30.0% had little knowledge and 20.0% had no knowledge regarding depression and anxiety. A large majority (90.0%) agreed that depression and anxiety affect daily life, and 80.0% perceived these conditions as somewhat or very common among women. Sixty percent believed that depression and anxiety can be treated with professional help, yet only 40.0% were aware of mental health services. Education showed a significant association with willingness to seek professional help (p=0.019), and marital status was significantly associated with perception of depression’s impact on daily life (p=0.041).  Conclusion: Women in Santhia had moderate awareness but limited in-depth knowledge regarding depression and anxiety. The study highlights the need for community-based mental health education and improved awareness of available mental health services among rural women.    

KYANCJ 2026; 07 (01): 23-31