PREVALENCE OF DEPRESSION AMONG WOMEN OF UNDERPRIVILEGE, FLOOD AFFECTED AREAS OF SINDH

Abstract

This study examines the prevalence of depression among underprivileged women aged 18 to 50 residing in flood-affected areas of Sindh, Pakistan. Natural disasters often leave marginalized groups disproportionately vulnerable, and in this context, women faced severe hardships due to inadequate access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, shelter, and healthcare. A sample of 250 participants were assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), administered through structured interviews in the local language. Results revealed a high prevalence of depression, with the majority of women experiencing moderate to severe symptoms. These findings highlight the substantial psychological burden of environmental disasters on vulnerable populations. The absence of medical practitioners and mental health specialists in these areas further intensifies the crisis, leaving women with little support. The study emphasizes the urgent need for culturally sensitive psychosocial interventions, improved healthcare access, and sustainable government-led rehabilitation initiatives in flood-affected regions to address the mental health consequences of climate-related disasters in Pakistan.

Keywords: Depression, Flood-affected women, Underprivileged population, Sindh, HAM-D.