Estimating the prevalence, socioeconomic determinants, and health seeking behavior of individuals with depression in Ghana

Abstract

Depression is a growing public health concern in Ghana, exacerbated by limited mental health services, stigma, and socio-economic disparities. While awareness is rising, research on its prevalence, health-seeking behavior, and socio-economic determinants remains limited. This study estimates depression prevalence, assesses health-seeking behavior, and identifies socio-economic drivers influencing these outcomes. Using three waves of the Ghana Socioeconomic Panel Survey (2009/2010, 2013/2014, 2018/2019), depression was measured via the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10). Logistic regression and random-effects models analyzed the socio-economic factors affecting depression and mental health-seeking behavior. Depression prevalence declined from 31.04% in 2009/2010 to 27.21% in 2013/2014 but rose again to 29.54% in 2018/2019. Health-seeking behavior improved from 6.38 to 14.88%, though rural and disadvantaged groups remained underserved. Older adults (65+) and Northern Region residents had significantly higher odds of depression, while post-secondary education reduced risk. Unemployment correlated with lower depression odds, likely reflecting the protective role of communal networks in Ghana. Depression remains a significant issue, with persistent disparities in access to care. Expanding rural mental health services, improving mental health literacy, and addressing regional inequalities are crucial to reducing Ghana's mental health burden.

Keywords: Depression; Ghana; Health-seeking behaviour; Mental health; Socioeconomic factors.