Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 29, 2026

A New Method for Inducing a Depression-Like Behavior in Rats
Published on: February 22, 2018
South African adolescents' beliefs about depression
Shilpa Aggarwal1, Michael Berk2, Lian Taljard3
1School of Medicine, Deakin University, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC, Australia Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia shilpazq@gmail.com.
Purpose:
This study explores the depression literacy in adolescents in South Africa.
Method:
A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 2,050 students from disadvantaged secondary schools in Johannesburg region.
Result:
A total of 90.9% reported depression as an illness, and 41.4% considered it a sign of weakness. Parents and siblings followed by friends and teachers were the preferred support options. The indicators of depression identified were socialisation pattern changes (24.6%), sad mood (23.6%), sleeping and eating pattern changes (18.3%), irritable behaviour (12.5%) and other health risk behaviours (9.7%).
Conclusion:
The majority considered depression an illness. An improvement in adolescent mental health literacy will increase access to help when needed.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Depressive Disorders: Etiology
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Depression: Overview
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Long-term Depression
Calcium Ion Concentration Mechanism
If over...
Long-term Depression
Sources of Self-Esteem I: Family Experience

