A mixed methods study on prevalence and factors associated with depressive symptoms and mental healthcare use among adults in Kashmir, India

Abstract Introduction: Depression remains a significant public health issue exacerbated by geopolitical uncertainty and socioeconomic vulnerability. We conducted this study to examine the prevalence of depressive symptoms, and explore the factors influencing mental healthcare access in Kashmir. Methods: We conducted a mixed-methods study employing a sequential explanatory design (quant-QUAL). A preliminary cross-sectional survey of 420 adults sampled from Budgam district, Kashmir was conducted to assess depressive symptoms using the patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). The qualitative phase followed included in-depth interviews