Anticipated and experienced stigma and discrimination in the workplace among individuals with major depressive disorder in 35 countries: qualitative framework analysis of a mixed-method cross-sectional study

  • 0Leicester School of Allied Health Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK tv250@cam.ac.uk.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) face significant workplace stigma and discrimination globally. Those in very high Human Development Index (HDI) countries report more anticipated and experienced discrimination compared to those in medium/low HDI nations.

Area Of Science

  • Mental Health Research
  • Sociology of Work
  • Global Health Disparities

Background

  • Workplace stigma and discrimination are major obstacles for individuals with mental illnesses, particularly Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
  • Limited research exists on the global variations in workplace stigma and discrimination experienced by individuals with MDD.
  • Understanding these disparities is crucial for developing targeted interventions and promoting inclusive employment.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To qualitatively explore anticipated and experienced workplace stigma and discrimination among individuals with MDD across 35 countries.
  • To examine how these experiences differ based on the Human Development Index (HDI) of the countries.
  • To contribute to a better understanding of the impact of socioeconomic context on mental health stigma in the workplace.

Main Methods

  • A mixed-method cross-sectional survey was employed.
  • Qualitative data were collected using open-ended questions from the Discrimination and Stigma Scale version 12 (DISC-12) related to employment.
  • Framework analysis was used to analyze data from 141 participants across 35 countries.

Main Results

  • Six key themes emerged: experiences of stigma/discrimination, impact, anticipation, coping, positive experiences, and contextualization.
  • Participants from very high HDI countries reported higher levels of anticipated and experienced workplace discrimination.
  • Conversely, participants from medium/low HDI countries were more likely to report positive workplace experiences.

Conclusions

  • This study highlights significant workplace stigma and discrimination issues for individuals with MDD, an under-researched diagnosis.
  • Findings reveal a correlation between higher HDI levels and increased reported workplace discrimination for individuals with MDD.
  • Contextual factors significantly influence the nature and prevalence of workplace stigma and discrimination, necessitating tailored approaches.

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