Global, Regional, and National Epidemiology of Depression in Working-Age Individuals, 1990-2019

Depression is a disorder that can have a serious impact on functioning and quality of life. Understanding the global, regional, and national epidemiology of depression in working-age populations (15-49 years) is important for informing mental health policies and services. However, up-to-date data have been lacking, especially in developing regions.

This study delved into the prevalence of depression among individuals in the working-age group, specifically those between 15 and 49 years, by analyzing data from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD). The comprehensive analysis aimed to determine the age-standardized prevalence, incidence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) associated with depression across diverse groups. It considered factors such as geographical regions, age brackets, genders, and sociodemographic indices, spanning a time frame from 1990 to 2019.

Globally, the estimated prevalent cases, incident cases, and DALYs for depression increased from 1990 to 2019. Regionally, certain regions like Central Latin America saw rapid increases in age-standardized prevalence and incidence rates over time. By sociodemographic regions, all tiers witnessed rises in incident cases, with high sociodemographic index (SDI) areas having the greatest burden in 2019. Nationally, countries such as India, China, and the United States had the highest total prevalence and incidence in 2019, while nations like Yemen and Angola reported exceptionally high age-standardized rates (ASRs). Peak prevalence risk occurred in the mid-to-late 40s age range. Period effects showed declining risks over time. Earlier birth cohorts, especially before the mid-1960s, faced higher risks than more recent generations. Population growth rather than epidemiological changes appeared to drive increases in disease burden.

From 1990 to 2019, the overall trend of depression burden in working-age individuals presents regional and national variations and differs by age, sex, period, and cohort.