SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION OF DEPRESSION AMONG WOMEN AGED 18 TO 49 IN CAPITAL CITY DISTRICT PESHAWAR (CCDP) PAKISTAN

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to analyze and find out the spatial distribution of depression amongst women in Capital City District Peshawar (CCDP). The preliminary data was collected from different hospitals KTH, LRH and Mental Hospital located in Peshawar. Discussion made with the officials and experts indicated that Depression is highly prevalent among females in CCDP. The household survey was the main source of primary data. Data was also gathered from the OPD record registered patients from various hospitals. For the statistical analysis SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) was used. The study revealed that social, economic and cultural factors such as, low level of literacy, poverty, conservativeness of society, violence, noise pollution and use of drugs were the main causes responsible for depression amongst the female of age between 18 to 49 years. Many women unfortunately do not seek help because they are embarrassed or do not recognize or realize their problems and symptoms as a disease called depression. Women being significant members of a family, if they suffer from any type of depression the whole family, especially youngster children are at risk of developing psychiatric and behavioral problems. If depression is left untreated they can seriously impede patient’s chances of recovery. In order to deal with the problem it is essential to recognize how the socio- economic, cultural, legal, infrastructural and environmental factors affect women’s mental health.