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Major life events as risk factors for post-stroke depression
1University of Alabama at Birmingham, Spain Rehabilitation Center, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 35233, USA.
Brain Injury
|March 18, 1999
Summary
Major life events increase the risk of developing post-stroke depression (PSD). Stroke survivors experiencing significant life events were more likely to be depressed at six months, highlighting the need for screening and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a common and serious complication.
- Psychosocial stressors, including major life events, are known risk factors for depression in the general population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate major life events as a risk factor for developing PSD within the first year after stroke.
- To determine the association between major life events and the onset of depression post-stroke.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 111 stroke patients was assessed for PSD using the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale at acute, 3, 6, and 12 months post-stroke.
- Patients reported on major life events experienced in the 6 months prior to each assessment, excluding the stroke itself.
Main Results:
- Patients experiencing a major life event in the preceding 6 months were significantly more likely to be depressed at the 6-month follow-up (p < 0.028, RR = 2.31).
- This finding indicates a substantial increased risk of depression associated with life stressors post-stroke.
Conclusions:
- Major life events are a significant risk factor for developing post-stroke depression (PSD) at 6 months.
- Clinical practice should include screening stroke survivors for major life events and addressing PSD.