Evaluation of the Awareness of Antidepressant Drug Usage Among the Population in Madinah: A Cross-Sectional Study

Depression is common, and antidepressants are widely used, yet a poor understanding of antidepressant medications may contribute to hesitancy in seeking help and non-compliance with treatment. Public understanding and attitudes toward these drugs, especially in Madinah, remain unclear.

This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and identify demographic and exposure-related factors influencing public perceptions of antidepressant use among adults residing in the Al-Madinah Region, Saudi Arabia.

This was an observational, analytical cross-sectional study conducted using an online self-administered questionnaire among adults (≥18 years) residing in the Al-Madinah Region, Saudi Arabia. A non-probability convenience sampling approach was used, and a total of 427 participants were included. The questionnaire was adapted from a previously published instrument and pilot-tested to ensure clarity and flow prior to full data collection. The questionnaire included demographic and exposure items and 12 statements assessing knowledge and beliefs about antidepressant use, scored 0-12 (higher scores indicating more evidence-consistent and less stigmatizing responses). Data were analyzed using chi-square/Fisher's exact tests and t-tests/ANOVA, as appropriate; p≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.

The study showed several misconceptions about antidepressant use: 73.5% believed that depression could resolve on its own, and 65.7% believed that antidepressants work immediately. Concerns about addiction (74.5%) and long-term use (45.7%) were also common. Higher awareness was significantly associated with being female (45.5%) and having a university education (43.1%) (p < 0.05). Regarding attitudes, 67.9% disagreed that antidepressant use indicates personal weakness, while 30.4% believed that antidepressant use could negatively affect employment opportunities.

These findings highlight a clear gap in public understanding and the need for awareness efforts through education, media, and community initiatives to address misconceptions and reduce stigma.