Perceptions and dealing with depression among 4 villagers of Isaan Region

บทคัดย่อ

Objective This study aimed to present perceptions and dealing with depression in a cultural context of Isaan.

Materials and methods A qualitative study was employed with 325 key informants from 4 villages of Khonkaen and Yasothon province. Data were collected by using focus group discussions, in-depth interviews and observations. Data were analyzed by using content analysis and thematic analysis.

Results The findings indicated that Isaan people conveyed depression and depressive disorders through verbal and non-verbal communication, some of adult who could read and write have heard about depressive disorders from mass medias, all aged group were vulnerable to get depressive disorders but women and elderly were at risk, and depression was regarded a personal issue that could be solved with in a family by having activities that they could forget their problems or causes of suffering.

Conclusion These findings suggested that it is necessary to change a peopleûs perspective toward depression and depressive disorders from personal to public issue because their consequences affect to a community well-being.