A Study of Depression and Its Predictors among Prisoners in Central Prison - Kadapa

Background: Mental illness disproportionately affects the physical, psychological, and social well-being of prisoners worldwide at a far higher rate than the general population. Depression is one of the common mental illnesses. However, in low- and middle-income countries, relatively little research has been undertaken to assess the prevalence and the factors that contribute to depression among prisoners. Aim: This paper aims to assess the burden and predictors of depression among prisoners in a central jail in Kadapa. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted among prisoners in central jail of Kadapa. Out of total 550 prisoners, 257 were selected by random sampling method and completed the interview; among them males were 235 and females were 22. The socio-demographic characteristics and PHQ-9 scale were used for data collection. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied for data analysis. Result: In the overall study sample, 27.23% of prisoners were diagnosed with moderate depression, and 22.9% were diagnosed with severe depression. Depression was more among the prisoners with life sentence and in those with first time imprisonment. There was significant association was seen between environment factors like poor nutrition and less social support from family member’s adjustment issues with peers with depression. Binary logistic regression showed that higher education, being accused of a crime, and having low social support are all significant predictors of depression in prisoners. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the significance of understanding the role of social support in prison and assisting policymakers in developing policies that make it more prisoner-oriented, resulting in increased prisoner mental well-being and health.