Depression, anxiety and physical function: exploring the strength of causality

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Research
• Longitudinal Studies
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Depression, anxiety, and physical function exhibit potential bidirectional relationships.
• Understanding these longitudinal associations is critical for public health.
• Previous research suggests complex interactions between mental and physical health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the longitudinal associations between depression, anxiety, and physical function.
• To investigate the impact of mental health on physical function over time.
• To explore the influence of physical function on the onset of depression and anxiety.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort study involving 4757 general practice attendees across Europe.
• Data collected at baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months.
• Utilized Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV for depression, Patient Health Questionnaire for anxiety, and Short Form 12 for physical function, with complete-case analyses.

Main Results:

• Individuals with depression, anxiety, or both reported lower physical function at baseline and over 24 months.
• Lower baseline physical function was a significant predictor for the onset of depression and anxiety.
• Anxiety, alone or with depression, was associated with significantly lower physical function compared to depression alone.

Conclusions:

• Preventing reduced physical function is essential for mitigating the risk of developing depression and anxiety.
• Interventions targeting physical function may have a positive impact on mental health outcomes.
• The findings highlight the importance of a holistic approach to health, considering both mental and physical well-being.