DEPRESSION IN CIVIL SERVICE RETIREES IN OSUN STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Retirement is a very important life event, which affects not only the retiree but also his
family. Most retirees are elderly and may have depression, which is known to be the
commonest mental disorder in this age group. This study was done to determine the
prevalence of depression and its correlates among civil service retirees in Osun State,
Nigeria. A two-stage sampling was done. Three local government areas were randomly
selected among the thirty in Osun State in the first stage. In the second stage, a total of three
hundred respondents were randomly selected from the respondents in the three local
government areas using the table of random numbers. A purpose-designed questionnaire
was administered on them and they were thoroughly examined by the author.
Statistical analysis showed that the prevalence rate of depression was 16.0%. There was a
significant fall in the social status of the retirees after retirement (p=0.00). Fifty seven point
three percent (57.3%) of them reported having a chronic illness but 70.4% were found to
have morbidity on clinical evaluation. Cardiovascular disorders, mainly hypertension, was
the commonest (49.7%) morbidity and Diabetes mellitus was confirmed in 9 (3.0%)
respondents. Depression was significantly associated with age, length of years in service,
previous occupation (social status), type of retirement, income, educational status and
B.M.I.
The findings are suggestive of a negative effect of the harsh socioeconomic conditions on
the mental health of retirees.
There is need to provide more social support programme for retiring and retired civil
servants.

DEPRESSION IN CIVIL SERVICE RETIREES IN OSUN STATE, NIGERIA