Prevalence and Determinants of Depression in West Bengal: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide and represents a major public health concern in India. West Bengal, due to its demographic and socioeconomic diversity, may experience a unique burden of depression; however, available evidence remains fragmented.

Objective: To systematically review PubMed-indexed studies reporting the prevalence and determinants of depression in West Bengal, India.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed was searched for observational studies conducted in West Bengal that reported the prevalence of depression and associated determinants. Studies published in English were screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results: Eight studies published between 2017 and 2024 were included. The prevalence of depression varied widely across population groups, ranging from approximately 29% among postpartum women to over 50% among school-going adolescents. High prevalence was also reported among community-dwelling adults (36%), elderly individuals (40–45.7%), and patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes (39.5%). Female gender, low socioeconomic status, lower educational attainment, family and social stressors, chronic medical conditions, and crisis-related factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic were consistently identified as significant determinants of depression.

Conclusion: Depression is highly prevalent across diverse population groups in West Bengal and is influenced by multiple interrelated determinants. The findings highlight the need for strengthened mental health screening, integration of mental health services into primary and maternal health care, and targeted interventions addressing social determinants. Future research should focus on population-representative and longitudinal studies to better inform mental health policy and practice in the state.