Changes in continuum beliefs for depression and schizophrenia in the general population 2011-2020: a widening gap.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The public discourse about mental health and mental illness seems to have become more open over the last decade, giving rise to the hope that symptoms of mental illness have become more relatable. We examine whether continuum beliefs regarding schizophrenia and depression have increased on a population level over a period of 9 years, and whether notions of unfamiliarity and incomprehensibility have decreased.

Methods

In 2011 (n = 2455) and 2020 (n = 3042), two methodologically identical cross-sectional population surveys were conducted in Germany. After the presentation of an unlabeled case vignette depicting someone with schizophrenia or depression, we asked about continuum beliefs, perceived unfamiliarity and perceived incomprehensibility of the person described.

SUBMITTER: Schomerus G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9845162 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature