Social Support and Quality of Life for Patients with Depressive Disorders

Abstract

Background: Depression is recognized as one of the major health threats in the 21st century. It is a maladaptive psychosocial phenomenon that can affect many areas of patients' lives and have a negative impact on their quality of life (QoL) and social support. Aim of the study: to assess social support and quality of life for patients with depressive disorders. Research design: A descriptive correlational research design was used to achieve the aim of the present study. Sample: A total convenient sample of 100 adult male and female depressed patients was included in the study sample. Setting: This study was carried out at outpatient clinic of Minia Hospital for psychiatric health and addiction. Patients who diagnosed as having organic brain diseases, mentally handicapped, substance abused were excluded from the study. Tools of data collection: The required data was collected through three tools. Sociodemographic Data Sheet, Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (ISEL) and Quality of Life Scale. Results: showed that 66% of depressed patient had low social support, while 50% of the depressed patients had low QOL level and there were statistical significance differences between education levels with QOL. Also, there were positive associations between QoL and social support & all its subscales except self esteem support. Conclusion: The current study showed that the highest percentage of the depressed patients had low social support and QOL. Recommendations: Establishing educational centers and hot lines for family awareness about the importance of social support and quality of life for depressed patients.