Depression, health status and life satisfaction in voice hearers

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to review the occurrence of depressive episodes and their relationship with the health status and life satisfaction in patients who hear voices. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study carried out between February and March 2019. For data collection, a questionnaire was used on socioeconomic and health conditions as well as the Beck’s Depression Inventory and Life Satisfaction Scale. The database was elaborated in the Epidata program and the analysis in Stata 11. Results: A total of 112 patients participated in the survey; 82 answered all the questions in Beck’s inventory. Patients who reported that they considered their health as very bad or bad and those who had high blood pressure experienced depression. Poor life satisfaction was also associated with the presence of depressive symptoms. Conclusion: It is therefore evident the importance of considering such aspects in the health care of voice-hearers.