Publication:

Burden of depression among housewives residing in an urbanised village of Delhi: a cross sectional study

Background Depression is a common yet under-recognised mental health disorder among women, particularly housewives in urbanized settings facing social and economic stressors. The current study aims to estimate the prevalence of depression and its associated psychosocial environment, financial status, domestic environment, family responsibilities, physical restriction and safety among housewives of an urbanized village in Delhi.

Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 490 housewives in Aliganj, New Delhi, selected through systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire and PHQ-9 for depression screening. Statistical Analysis used: Statistical analysis included the Chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression, with significance at p<0.05.

Results The mean age of participants was 37.4±11.11 years. The prevalence of depression (PHQ-9≥10) was 15.5%. Factors significantly associated with depression included lack of domestic support (AOR=2.42, 95% CI: 1.58–3.72), physical abuse (AOR=1.81, 95% CI: 1.40–2.10), family debt (AOR=1.92, 95% CI: 1.66–2.81), housewife by choice (AOR=3.35, 95% CI: 2.82–4.20) and verbal abuse (AOR=2.22, 95% CI: 1.35–3.60).

Conclusions Depression among housewives was found to be substantial in the present study. Strengthening psychosocial support, improving domestic environments and community-level mental health interventions are crucial to enhancing women’s well-being.