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Factors associated with depression in navy recruits
Reg Arthur Williams1, Bonnie M Hagerty, Steven M Yousha
1University of Michigan, School of Nursing, Ann Arbor 48109, USA. rawill@umich.edu
Journal of Clinical Psychology
|March 29, 2002
Summary
Young Navy recruits experiencing depression face higher risks of leaving the Navy. Predisposing factors like family history and concomitant stressors such as loneliness significantly impact depressive symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Military Psychology
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Depression onset is decreasing and linked to major life events.
- Understanding factors contributing to depression in young adults is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine predisposing and concomitant factors associated with depressive symptoms in Navy recruits.
- To investigate the relationship between these factors and training completion.
Main Methods:
- A study of 443 Navy recruits (200 with depressive symptoms, 243 matched controls).
- Assessment of predisposing factors (family history, psychiatric history) and concomitant factors (stress, loneliness, coping styles).
Main Results:
- Depressed recruits were more likely to be separated from the Navy and not complete training.
- Significantly more predisposing factors (family history of mental illness/alcohol abuse, psychiatric problems) in depressed recruits.
- Significantly more concomitant factors (stress, loneliness, life-change events, lower belonging, emotion-oriented coping) in depressed recruits.
Conclusions:
- Findings indicate that family history and psychosocial stressors are significant factors in the development of depression in young adults.
- Interventions addressing stress, loneliness, and coping mechanisms may be beneficial for preventing depression in military personnel and young people.
- This study highlights the role of life stressors and interpersonal functioning in depressive symptom development.