DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjm.2025.v11i11.006

Pages: 1106-1111

Introduction: Mood disorders, particularly depression and bipolar disorder, represent a major global health burden. In primary care, their detection remains insufficient, despite their high prevalence and impact on disability. In Morocco, few studies have assessed their prevalence in primary health settings. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of depression and bipolar disorder in primary health care services in the city of Oujda and to identify the associated sociodemographic and clinical factors. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study was conducted between July and November 2023 across 11 primary health centers in Oujda. Three hundred adult patients were included. The Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) was used to assess depressive disorders and suicidal risk, and the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) to screen for bipolar disorder. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21.0, with a significance threshold set at 5%. Results: The prevalence of major depressive episode was 23.7%, dysthymia 4%, suicidal risk 11.3%, and bipolar disorder 1%. Major depressive episode was significantly associated with urban origin, diabetes, thyroid disorders, anxiety disorders, corticosteroid use, and a personal or family history of suicide attempts. Dysthymia was associated with diabetes, while bipolar disorder was linked to alcohol and cannabis consumption. Conclusion: This study highlights a high prevalence of mood disorders in primary care settings, emphasizing the need for systematic screening, targeted training of general practitioners, and improved integration of mental health services within primary health care.