Age differences in associations between psychological distress and chronic conditions

To examine associations between psychological distress (PD) and chronic health conditions among different age groups in a representative population sample.

PD measured by the Kessler-10, and the presence of diagnosed chronic conditions were self-reported by respondents aged 18 years and over in a South Australian continuous computer-assisted telephone interviewing surveillance system from July 2002 to June 2007 (n = 26,376).

The overall prevalence of PD was 9.8% (95% CI 9.5-10.2). In age-specific adjusted multivariate models, arthritis and mental health conditions remained significantly associated with PD for all age groups, cardiovascular disease was significantly associated with PD among those aged 35 years and over, asthma was associated with PD for respondents aged 50 years and over, and osteoporosis was associated with PD for 50-64 year olds. Being born outside of Australia, United Kingdom or Ireland, current smoking, low level of education, and low income also remained significantly associated with PD for all age groups.

Young people experience a higher prevalence of PD than older age groups, irrespective of the presence of chronic conditions.