• While a significant amount of research has been done concerning depression in the general population, there is an absolute dearth of understanding about the mental health status of the tribal societies of India.

• The key objectives of the study included:

1. Assessment of prevalence of depression among the ST population

2. Assessment of determinants of depressive symptoms among the ST population

• Secondary data from the LASI survey conducted between April 2017 and December 2018 was obtained, and  12,215 STs were segregated. 

• The self-reported depressive symptoms were assessed using the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), which comprises 20 questions regarding depressive episodes and overall mental health.

• The results of the study were as follows :

1. 25% of the ST population experienced depressive symptoms, ranging from 21 % among 45-49 year olds to 29% among STs over 70 years of age.

2. Depressive episodes were more common among females.

3. Depressive symptoms showed a negative association between education and no. of living children.

4. Depressive symptoms showed a positive correlation with the presence of comorbidities.

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