South African adolescents' beliefs about depression

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.