SCENARIO OF MENTAL HEALTH IN BANGLADESH: A SIGNATURE GLIMPSE

Abstract

The study aims to gain primary evidences on the mental health condition of
Bangladesh. A quantitative survey instrument was applied on 982 respondents
from Dhaka, Chittagong, and Rajshahi divisions in Bangladesh. It included adult
sample, aged above 18 years from different hospitals, universities and
organizations. 51.7% of the respondents were male and rest 48.9% female. The
survey focused on knowledge, attitude and behavior related to mental health.
This paper presents the behavioral manifestation of mental health condition.
From the description of different psychological problems the responders
encounter in their life, depression (69.5%) was identified as the highest
manifested mental health issue followed by anxiety (66.8%) and study-related
issues (64.5%). Notable percentage had experience of trauma (28.0%), and abuse
(19.2% physical abuse and 10.1% sexual abuse). Suicidal ideation was found to be
present in 19.8% of the respondents. Significant gender differences towards male
were found for problem with study, anger, romantic relation, eating, and
substance abuse. Females had significantly higher experience of sexual abuse.
Similar significant regional difference were noted for several behavioral
indicators of mental health; Dhaka being the highest prevailing region. It was
found to be true specifically for suicidal thoughts and attempts. This study
reestablished the alarming situation of mental health existing among the people
in Bangladesh which call forth urgent action to address the most vital aspect of
health through psychological assistance.