Factors associated with recurrent depression: a prospective study in family practice

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Mental Health
• Epidemiology
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Depression frequently recurs, impacting patient well-being.
• Identifying predictors of recurrent depression is crucial for effective patient management.
• Early identification of at-risk individuals can improve treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate factors associated with recurrent depression over a 12-month period.
• To identify specific risk variables for predicting depression relapse.
• To inform clinical practice in managing patients with depressive disorders.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 1094 adult patients (18-75 years) from 23 Estonian family practices were recruited.
• Follow-up assessments occurred at 6 and 12 months, utilizing the Composite International Diagnostic Interview for depression diagnosis.
• Risk factors were evaluated through a comprehensive questionnaire administered to each participant.

Main Results:

• Major depression was diagnosed in 13% of the study population.
• Twenty-eight percent of depressed patients experienced a recurrent episode within 12 months.
• Significant predictors of recurrent depression included a history of drug abuse (OR 7.48), experiencing discrimination (OR 2.92), and childhood abuse (OR 1.58).

Conclusions:

• Approximately one-third of patients experienced recurrent depression within a year.
• History of drug abuse, discrimination, and childhood abuse are significant predictors of depression recurrence.
• Family doctors should consider these identified risk factors when managing patients with depression to personalize care and mitigate relapse.