Exploring the convergence of knowledge, attitudes, and practice towards mental illness among nurses in South India: A cross-sectional analysis

Mental illness is a leading cause of global morbidity. Over 10% of the Indian population experience a mental health disorder yet deficits in knowledge and negative attitudes towards metal illness limit early identification and treatment. We explored the relationship among knowledge, attitudes and practice among generalist nurses working at a large tertiary care hospital in South India. Participants demonstrated positive attitudes and sufficient knowledge about mental illness, yet these variables did not predict practice when presented with a patient case scenario of postpartum depression-related mental distress in a non-psychiatric inpatient setting. Findings warrant application-based pedagogies to facilitate nurses' enhanced recognition and treatment of patients experiencing mental distress in non-psychiatric settings.