Philippine E-Journals

Moderating effect of the impact of COVID-19 on the relationship of stigma and depression: A public mental health concern

Mildred G. Glinoga | Cely D. Magpantay | Marissa Calleja

 

Abstract:

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has led to rising depression rates worldwide. In the Philippines, people with mental disease are highly stigmatized. Students are one of the most vulnerable populations for depression and stigmatization. This study examines the relationship between the effect of the pandemic and depression rate as well as the role of self-stigma among students. Methods A correlational research design was utilized using the online-platform Questback. College students were recruited and answered a questionnaire assessing their depression level, self-stigma towards depression using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale and Self-Stigma of Depression Scale, respectively, and how negatively they were affected by the pandemic. Multiple and hierarchal linear regression analyses were done to determine the relationship between impact of the pandemic and selfstigma on depression. Results Of 349 respondents included in the analysis, 60% had moderate to extremely severe depression. Pandemic impact (ß = 0.40) and self-stigma of depression (ß = 0.32) were both positively associated with depression. A moderating effect of Social Inadequacy, a dimension of self-stigma of depression was found. The effect of pandemic impact on depression was stronger on students with higher levels of social inadequacy. Conclusion Students who are less likely to feel socially inadequate when having depression seem to be more resilient against developing depression when coping with distress brought about by the pandemic.