Effect of Educational Booklet on Depression : An Intervention Study among Medical Students

Depression is a common mental disorder affecting large number of people and a cause of growing concerns in younger population especially medical students. But there is paucity of data to determine the effect of educational intervention on the knowledge, attitude and health seeking behavior regarding depression among medical students. An intervention study was carried out among 100 medical students in Delhi to assess the effect of educational booklet on knowledge and attitude about depression. Data was analyzed and statistical significance was determined using Mc nemar test and Chi square test. Significant improvement was noticed on various aspects of depression like knowledge about causes, symptoms, treatment etc. Most common reasons for not seeking help were lack of understanding by other people, lack of confidentiality, social stigma and fear of rejection. Majority of students accepted the booklet. It is concluded that the booklet improved their knowledge to a great extent. Hence educational intervention materials should be promoted to help students to identify and understand the depression which will improve their health seeking behavior.