Beliefs and Attitudes of African Americans With Type 2 Diabetes Toward Depression

PURPOSE This qualitative study was conducted with African Americans with type 2 diabetes to explore beliefs and attitudes about depression. METHODS Twenty-five adults participated in 4 focus groups. The sessions were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. The Health Belief Model was used as a theoretical framework for the design and analysis of the focus group data. RESULTS Five themes pertinent to depression management emerged: (1) There were misconceptions about the etiology of depression and individual vulnerability to depression. (2) Depression was perceived as severe. (3) Treatment was perceived as beneficial. (4) Stigma was a significant barrier to seeking treatment. (5) Cues to action did not appear to change beliefs. CONCLUSIONS Despite awareness about the severity of depression and benefits of treatment, several barriers and erroneous beliefs may interfere with the ability of African Americans with type 2 diabetes to seek and adhere to treatment for depression.