[Prevalence and factors associated with depression in the Spanish population: data from the European Health Survey]

To analyze the prevalence of depressive symptomatology in the population between 15 and 104 years of age in Spain to study whether there are factors that may be associated with and related to its presence. To this end, data from the 2020 European Health Interview Survey (EHIS) were collected.

Analytical cross-sectional study, based on secondary information obtained from this survey.

General population residing in Spain, in a community context.

A total of 22,072 subjects residing in family homes in the national territory in 2019, of which 47.1% were men and 52.9% women.

Prevalence of depressive symptomatology (PHQ-8). Sociodemographic and behavioural factors analysed: physical activity, tobacco and alcohol consumption, frequency of use of health services, chronic diseases and functional limitations.

The overall prevalence of positive depression screening in the sample was 8.7%. The multivariate analysis identified the presence of chronic diseases, physical limitations, physical inactivity, and former smoking status as the main associated factors. Likewise, subjects with depressive symptomatology had a higher frequency of use of health services.

There are several modifiable behavioural factors associated with depressive symptomatology. The promotion of physical activity and the comprehensive approach to chronicity and functional capacity could be key strategies to improve the state of mental health in the population.