Objective: To study the indirect effect of social isolation between stigma and depression among hepatitis patients.
Methodology: Using purposive sample with equal representation of both genders, 120 hepatitis patients were recruited from different hospitals of district Sargodha. The Stigma Scale, Depression, Anxiety and Stress scale, and Friendship: 6 items scale were used to measure stigma, depression and social isolation, respectively.
Results: Path analysis in Amos indicated the positive direct effect of stigma on social isolation and positive direct effect of social isolation on depression. Perceived stigma also demonstrated a positive indirect effect on depression through social isolation.
Conclusion: Higher level of stigmatization and social isolation can lead to more severe depression. However, detection and management of social isolation, stigmatization and depression at early stages can lead to less future morbidity and mortality.
Key words: Social isolation, perceived stigma, hepatitis patients.
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