Depression is common in African Caribbeans in UK inner cities

Most studies of mental disorders in African Caribbean people have concentrated on psychotic disorders. Little attention has been paid to the common disorders depression and anxiety, which are mostly treated in primary care. Shaw et al (p 302) found similar rates of common mental disorder in African Caribbeans and white Europeans living in inner city Manchester, although African Caribbeans were more likely to be depressed than anxious. Both ethnic groups were equally likely to seek medical help, commonly presenting with physical symptoms. Many African Caribbeans sought alternative help. The authors emphasise the importance of recognising and treating these common mental disorders in all ethnic groups.


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Relevant Article

Prevalence of anxiety and depressive illness and help seeking behaviour in African Caribbeans and white Europeans: two phase general population survey • Commentary: Counting heads may mask cultural and social factors

C M Shaw, F Creed, B Tomenson, L Riste, J K Cruickshank, and Greta Rait
BMJ 1999 318: 302-306. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]