FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DEPRESSION IN PATIENTS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA.

The aim of this study was to analyze risk factors present in schizophrenic patients with depressive symptomatology. The sample comprised of 76 respondents diagnosed with schizophrenia. In the study, we used the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia. The prevalence of depression was estimated to be 30%. The mean scores on the negative subscale of the PANSS were significantly higher in patients with schizophrenia and depression compared to control group (U=3.64, p=0.00), and so were those on the General Psychopathology Scale (U=4.91, p=0.00). Socio-demographic factors were identified as important factors (p<0.05). Personal and environmental factors such as loneliness, immediate social environment, social support and isolation were statistically significantly different between the groups (p<0.05). There was a correlation of poor compliance with psycho-pharmacotherapy, increased number of hospitalizations and shorter remission period with the severity of clinical presentation (p<0.05). Since the presence of these factors is associated with depression in schizophrenia, their early detection in clinical practice is vital to ensure timely prevention of the development of depressive symptomatology.