Perceived stress, depression and medication adherence among hypertensive patients attending a secondary care hospital in lagos, nigeria

331 hypertensive patients (221 women, 66.8%) were included in this study (Mean age of 60.0 ± 13.9 years). 77% had average to high levels of perceived stress (PSS-10 score of > 12) while 55% had varying levels of depression. Mean score on Hill-Bone Compliance Scale was 20.1 ± 3.7. Income level, Number of drugs used daily were significantly associated with perceived stress (p < 0.05,p < 0.01). Younger age, Female Gender, Presence of co-morbidities and Number of drugs used daily were significantly associated with depression(p < 0.01,p < 0.05,p < 0.05,p < 0.01). Perceived stress and depression were significantly associated with lower levels of medication adherence (p < 0.05; p < 0.01).Conclusion: This study lends credence to the idea that perceived stress and depression results in negative self-care behavior that adversely impacts medication adherence. Greater awareness of the potential for psychological distress in hypertensive patients must be emphasized to all physicians. Improving medication adherence rates requires collaborative care with intensified screening and appropriate management for social and psychological stressors.