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Factors associated with hopelessness: a population study
Kaisa Haatainen1, Antti Tanskanen, Jari Kylmä
1Department of Psychiatry, Kuopio University Hospital, Finland. kaisa.haatainen@kuh.fi
The International Journal of Social Psychiatry
|August 6, 2004
Summary
Hopelessness affects 11% of the general population, linked to poor finances, health, and life satisfaction. Recognizing hopelessness is crucial for overall well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Hopelessness is linked to depression and suicidality in various populations.
- Limited data exists on hopelessness prevalence and associated factors in the general population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of hopelessness in a general population sample.
- To identify factors associated with hopelessness in the general population.
Main Methods:
- A random population sample of 1722 subjects was surveyed.
- Utilized Beck Hopelessness Scale (HS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), and Life Satisfaction Scale (LS).
Main Results:
- 11% of subjects reported moderate to severe hopelessness.
- Independently associated factors included poor financial situation, poor subjective health, and reduced working ability.
- Hopelessness significantly increased with dissatisfaction with life, depression, alexithymia, and suicidal ideation.
Conclusions:
- Hopelessness has a moderately high prevalence in the general population.
- Hopelessness is a significant indicator of low subjective well-being.
- Healthcare professionals should consider hopelessness as a key indicator in patient assessment.