Determinants of depression among people with epilepsy in Central Ethiopia

• Main Authors: Asrat Chaka, Tadesse Awoke, Zegeye Yohannis, Getinet Ayano, Minale Tareke, Andargie Abate, Mulugeta Nega
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2018-06-01
• Series: Annals of General Psychiatry
• Subjects: Comorbidity; Depression; Epilepsy
• Online Access: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12991-018-0197-z

Abstract Background Depression is the most frequently and highly occurring mental disorders in epilepsy patients. When depression is comorbid with epilepsy, it leads to low employment and poor quality of life. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of depression among people living with epilepsy in Central Ethiopia. Methods Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2015 at Amanuel Mental Specialized and TikurAnbesa Hospitals, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Samples of 422 epilepsy patients were selected, and data on depression were collected using validated questionnaire using face-to-face interview technique. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess predictors of depression. Results The study indicated that the prevalence of depression among people with epilepsy was 43.8%. Factors associated with depression were being female (AOR 2.48; 95% CI, 1.61.3.81), being single (AOR 2.23; 95% CI 1.38–3.60), perceived stigma (AOR 2.47; 95% CI 1.59–3.83), medication adherence (AOR 2.85; 95% CI 1.64–4.96), and current substance use (AOR 2.10; 95% CI 1.34–3.30). Conclusion There is a high prevalence of depression among epilepsy patients. Early detection and prompt management of depressive symptoms are critically important in reducing depression burden among people living with epilepsy.