To assess the knowledge and attitudes about depression in the general  population in the Wardha District, India. [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]

Background: Physical symptoms of depression, especially tiredness, pain, or disturbed sleep, are common. Some people may experience depression as a chronic condition, with more episodes increasing the risk of recurrence. Others may experience a single episode of depression in their lifetime. Given its great incidence and crippling consequences on development, early-onset depression is regarded as one of the most common mental illnesses in children and adolescents which can last into adulthood. The following categories can be used to classify the factors that affect depression susceptibility: genetics, familial environment, individual characteristics, and extreme stress. Gender, history of depression in the family, subclinical symptoms, poor cognitive style, and negative life events are also main risk factors. Methods: This protocol is for an observational study, which will take place over a four month period in the Wardha district. Participants will be recruited via the Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital (AVBRH) as a medical center from the general population. A piloted questionnaire with a Likert scale will be completed by the participants enrolled in the study with assistance from interviewers. Frequency percentage, mean, and SD will be calculated to understand the relationship between various demographic variables and knowledge. Chi-square tests will also be used. Distribution: The data collection of this study is supposed to be completed August 2023 and the results will be communicated to the external funding body through formal report. In addition, the trial results will be communicated to the public through publishing as dataset and original research published in the relevant scientific journals.