ABSTRACT

Background: Depression in the work place is a significant concern with a large effect on productivity and relationships in the work place. People who experience an emotional disorders may withdraw from others, become irritable and/or aggressive towards coworkers, take a lot of time off, or appears less productive than usual.

Aim: This study aims to determine the prevalence and correlates of depression among Bugando Medical Centre and Catholic University of Health and Allied Science staffs.

Method: This was a cross sectional study, where a total of 301 staff were recruited and interviewed by using Becks Depression Inventory (BDI). The sample size was randomly selected from each institution.

Results: Survey participants were 53.16% female with 72.08% of the participants being married. Of the participants, 86.38% were Bugando Medical Centre employees while 13.62% were employed by Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences. The overall prevalence of depression was 32.89% with 18.94%, 10.96% and 2.99% having mild, moderate and severe depression respectively. Gender, age, marital status, number of children, type of housing/ residency, level of education and primary employer showed statistically significant correlation with depression.

Conclusion: The results showed high prevalence of depression in the work place. Earlier screening, detection and intervention would increase the productivity and reduce the burden of morbidity and disability.