The Relationship Between the Depression Coping Self-Efficacy Level and Perceived Social Support Resources

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the depression coping self-efficacy level and perceived social support resources. Methods: This study was planned as a descriptive and correlation research. The study population comprised 105 patients from acute psychiatric wards with a diagnosis of a major depressive disorder or episode; dysthymic disorder; bipolar I or II depressive episode; or adjustment disorder with depressive mood determined according to the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria. A questionnaire form, the Depression Coping Self-Efficacy Scale and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support were used for the study. Results: The Depression Coping Self-Efficacy Scale score of the population was 48.10 +/- 21.35 (min: 10, max: 97) and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support score was 51.73 +/- 21.05 (Family: 18.04 +/- 8.71; Friends: 15.91 +/- 8.24; Special Person: 17.78 +/- 8.72). There was a positive correlation between the Depression Coping Self-Efficacy Scale and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (r=0.50; p< 0.01). Conclusion: This study is a contribution to the related literature since it demonstrates the relationship between the depression coping self-efficacy level and perceived social support resources of patients with depressive disorder. Self-efficacy and social support are important factors in the development and continuance of depression. Therefore, it is important that health professionals work with the family and spouses during the therapy in order to increase the level of social support for these individuals.