Gender differences in depression among veterans with spinal cord injury

Little is known about gender differences in depression among veterans with spinal cord injury (SCI). Accordingly, the main objectives of this study were (a) to examine demographic and clinical characteristics of veterans with SCI; (b) to investigate gender differences in lifetime depression and depressive symptom severity, including probable major depressive disorder (MDD); and (c) to identify contributory factors (e.g., pain, life satisfaction) for gender differences in depression.

An exploratory secondary analysis was performed on a cross-sectional data set (N = 1,047) from a longitudinal study of health and employment among veterans with SCI. Community-dwelling veterans (N = 135) included women (n = 45) case-matched 1:2 to men (n = 90) based on age, injury level, and time since injury. Group comparisons and regression analyses were used to explore gender differences.

Veterans with SCI had significantly higher rates of lifetime depression as compared with the general population. Women, as compared with men, had higher rates of lifetime depression diagnosis and endorsed more depressive symptoms, as measured by the Quick Inventory of Depression Symptomatology-Self Report (QIDS-SR). Among women, satisfaction with life was a significant predictor of QIDS-SR scores. A similar pattern was seen among men, with the addition of bodily pain as a significant predictor.

Given the relationship between depressive symptoms and life satisfaction for women, follow-up depression screenings among veterans with SCI should include quality of life assessments. Additionally, assessment of somatic symptoms, such as pain, in relation to depressive symptomatology is recommended, particularly among men. (PsycINFO Database Record