The psychosocial determinants of depression: a lifespan perspective

This cross-sectional study compares depressive risk factors within and between two Western community cohorts. Six hundred eight primary care patients from the rural population of Farranfore, Ireland, and the suburban population of Penrith, Australia, completed a self-report questionnaire designed to be comprehensive in characterizing the psychosocial profile of patients with depressive symptoms. The survey included the Centre for Epidemiological Study Depression scale, Vulnerable Personality Style Questionnaire, Life Events Inventory, and Social Support Survey. Exposure to a range of early adverse childhood events was also assessed. The 3-month prevalence of depressive symptoms among Farranfore and Penrith respondents was 30% and 35%, respectively. The onset of depressive symptoms was positively associated with unfavorable childhood events, poorly perceived social supports, recent stressful life events, a vulnerable personality style, and previous depressive illness. The study identifies the person's social and internal world as a potent source of depressive risk over the lifespan.