Self-stigma and its correlates among outpatients with depressive disorders

Psychiatr Serv. 2005 May;56(5):599-601. doi: 10.1176/appi.ps.56.5.599.

Abstract

The aims of this study were to assess self-stigma among Taiwanese outpatients with depressive disorders and to examine the factors related to self-stigma. Using the Self-Stigma Assessment Scale, the authors evaluated 247 outpatients with depressive disorders to determine their levels of self-stigma. The relationships between self-stigma and severity of depressive symptoms, sociodemographic characteristics, and course of illness were further examined. Sixty-two patients (25 percent) had high levels of self-stigma. Patients who had more severe depression and less education had higher levels of self-stigma. Clinicians should take self-stigma into consideration when communicating with depressed patients, especially those with characteristics associated with high levels of self-stigma.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Depression / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Outpatients
  • Self Concept*
  • Stereotyping*
  • Taiwan