Effect of a Web-based Educational Intervention in Improving Depression Knowledge and Help-seeking Behaviour in Women

Background: Depression is of global concern and one of the leading causes of disability in the United States. Based on a needs assessment conducted in a faith-based organization, we noticed a gap in depression knowledge, an unwillingness to seek help, and a lack of open dialogue among the women. Studies have shown that low depression literacy impedes early recognition, prevention, and willingness to seek help (Brijnath et al., 2016; Reavley et al., 2014). Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of web-based educational intervention in improving depression knowledge and help-seeking behavior among women in a faith-based organization. Methods: Using a quantitative pre-post design method, this study utilized a convenience sample of 38 women recruited from a community church. Participants were between 18 and 65 years of age, English speaking, with or without depressive symptoms or clinical diagnosis of depression. Participants completed educational modules on the BluePages website and pre-post questionnaires measuring depression knowledge and help-seeking behavior using a Depression Literacy tool (DLit) and the General Help-Seeking Questionnaire (GHSQ). Results: The study revealed improved depression knowledge using a paired sample t-test, revealing a p-value of 0.01 and a mean difference between the pretest (M=12.63, SD=3.92) and posttest scores (M=11.16, SD= 3.91). 60% of participants improved in depression knowledge. There was no significant difference in the help-seeking behavior scores for pretest (M=4.15 (SD =0.95) to posttest scores (M=4.36 SD =1.00). Participants were more likely to seek help from an intimate partner, pastor, or a general physician than other listed sources. Recommendations: Web-based educational intervention should be offered routinely in clinics and communities. Recommend collaboration between healthcare professionals and pastors to promote depression literacy. Findings from this study will add to the existing body of knowledge on depression literacy. However, additional research is necessary to generalize the findings to a larger population