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Factors affecting service utilization for depression in a white collar population
M A Dew1, E J Bromet, H C Schulberg
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine.
Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Approximately one-third of depressed white-collar workers sought professional help. Those consulting mental health specialists experienced greater impairment and poorer work performance compared to others.
Area of Science:
- Mental Health Services Research
- Psychiatry
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Depression is a prevalent mental health condition affecting individuals across various professional settings.
- Understanding help-seeking behaviors in depressed populations is crucial for effective intervention.
- White-collar workers represent a significant demographic where mental health service utilization patterns warrant investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the rates of mental health service utilization among depressed individuals in a large white-collar cohort.
- To identify clinical and psychosocial factors differentiating help-seekers from non-help-seekers.
- To explore factors influencing the choice of professional mental health services versus other healthcare providers.
Main Methods:
- A large white-collar cohort was surveyed regarding their experiences with depressive episodes.
- Data collected included clinical features, psychosocial characteristics, and service utilization patterns.
- Statistical analyses were performed to compare groups based on help-seeking behavior and provider choice.
Main Results:
- Roughly one-third of the study sample sought professional help for their depressive episode.
- Individuals consulting mental health specialists exhibited higher clinical impairment and poorer work performance.
- These specialists-consulting individuals also reported fewer psychosocial assets compared to other groups.
- No significant differences were found between those consulting non-psychiatric physicians and those seeking no help on many assessed variables.
Conclusions:
- Depression significantly impacts white-collar workers, with a notable portion seeking professional mental health services.
- Higher clinical impairment and reduced psychosocial resources are associated with seeking specialized mental health care.
- Further research is needed to understand the distinct pathways and barriers to care for different subgroups of depressed individuals.