This depression study was based on the previously conducted global ASPEN (Anti Stigma Programme European Network-Schizophrenia) study carried out in 27 countries of which the results were published in the scientific journal The Lancet in January 2009.
The second phase of the study started in year 2010, conducted at 39 sites around the world and the Institute for Research & Development in Health & Social Care was the only Sri Lankan site.
Research Assistants conducted a face to face interviews with 25 participants, using;
- A revised 32 item Discrimination and Stigma Scale (DISC-12)
- BUES – about self perceived empowerment
- ISMI – measuring internalized stigma
- SES – measuring self esteem