Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction: Mood disorders are mental health conditions characterized by emotional alterations that manifest in prolonged periods of intense sadness (depression) and excessive uplifting or euphoria (mania). Objective: To assess the levels of anxiety and depression in inmates at the Cacuso Penitentiary in Malanje, Angola. Methodology: This is an observational-based exploratory study, conducted at the Cacuso Penitentiary in Malanje in the period between April and May 2024, with a total of 15 inmates selected for convenience from a universe of 18 existing. The interview was conducted by applying two Hamilton scales previously adapted to the context of Angola, to measure the levels of anxiety symptoms (HAM-A) and depression (HAM-D). Results: The inmates were detained for more than a year. The majority were single (86.6%), and the predominant age group was 28-32 (33.3%) and 38 (33.3%) years of age. In addition to having up to 5 children (93.3%), a good proportion of the inmates did not complete the second cycle of secondary education (53.2%), and others were illiterate (40%). Most worked for their own account (53.3%), others for hire (13.3%), and others were engaged in agriculture (13.3%). The average level of anxiety and depression symptoms among inmates was 26 (severe). Conclusions: The mood of the inmates is severe and suggests structured clinical evaluation as well as the implementation of psychosocial support strategies.
Source: Revista Angolana de Ciencias
DOI: 10.54580/r0801.15
Institution: Universidade Rainha Njinga a Mbande
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7166301958