symptoms and underlying factors of depression among inmates in bonga town correctional center, kaffa zone, snnpr, ethiopia

the main objective of this study was to examine symptoms and underlying factors of depression among inmates of bonga town correctional center. the institution-based cross-sectional study design was employed and through systematic sampling, 327 inmates from february to march 2017 were considered for this study. data was collected by using a standardized self-reported questionnaire. stepwise regression was conducted to identify associated factors. mann whitney u test was used to determine gender difference on symptoms of depression. the finding of this study revealed symptoms of depression (change in appetite, change in sleep pattern, loss of energy, selfdislike) prevail among inmates of bonga town correctional center. the level of depression was moderate 52.29%. pessimism (r=.120, p=.030), self-dislike (r=.136, p=.014) and crying (r=.142,p=.010) were symptoms of depression associated with inmates years of incarceration. sociodemographic factors, environmental factors were to as well as psychosocial factors were associated with depression. there was a significant gender difference in each symptom of depression; i.e female inmates suffered more than male inmates in each symptom of. bonga correctional center communities should work cooperatively with bonga g/tsadik shawo hospital to help inmates who were at risk.