Trends of depression in the adult population – has the prevalence of depression increased in Finland?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.23990/sa.74420Keywords:
depressive disorders, major depressive disorder, dysthumia, prevalence, psychiatric epidemiologyAbstract
Globally, the prevalence of depression has not changed in recent decades. In Finland, the prevalence of depressive disorders in representative population surveys increased from 7.3% in 2000 to 9.6% in 2011. The increase was statistically significant among women, but not among men. Use of anti-depressant drugs and outpatient treatment of depression have also increased in the 2000s, while hospitalization has decreased. Treatment of depressive disorders has increased more than their prevalence, suggesting that more people seek treatment for their symptoms. Measuring changes in the prevalence of depressive disorders is challenging due to differences in interview methods and varying participation activity leading to selection bias. The prevalence of depressive disorders in Finland is somewhat higher than the global average, but when comparing figures, it is important to note that the Finnish prevalence estimates are adjusted for non-participation by using multiple imputation, unlike in most other studies. It can therefore be concluded that the prevalence of depression in Finland is probably not exceptionally high compared to other Western countries. Changes in the prevalence of depression can reflect other societal changes. In particular, economic downturns often have negative consequences for mental health. The apparent increase of depression in Finland has occurred at the same time as the economic recession of the 2010s. However, it is possible that the current prevalence of depressive disorders is also affected by the recession of the 1990s, as childhood adversities are a risk factor for depressive disorders. The increase in the prevalence of depressive disorders in Finland, particularly among women, warrants further study and measures to change this worrying development.
