Depression symptoms: Their association with socio-demographic factors and health among adults in South Africa

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess depression symptoms and socio-demographic and health correlates in a recent (2014-2015) national population-based survey of South Africa adults (n = 22 752; females =57.5%; mean age 37.1 years, SD = 17.6). The participants reported on their socio-demographic variables, health statuses, and experience of depression symptoms the previous four weeks. About 13% of the sample scored positive for depression symptoms. In adjusted logistic regression analysis, being female, older age, being long term sick or disabled, having two or more pain disorders, having been diagnosed with diabetes, and having smoked regularly were associated with high risk for depression symptoms. Being a student, having below or average household income, and having exercised three or more times a week was associated with lower risk for depression symptoms.