Depression and Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Associations with Economic Distress

摘要

The study explored the impact of the economic crisis on the mental health of the Greek population. Two nationwide cross-sectional surveys were conducted in 2009 and 2011 following the same methodology. A random and representative sample of people was interviewed over the phone about their financial distress and symptoms of major depression (MD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The results showed a noticeable increase in one-month prevalence of MD between the two years; with males, people aged 25-34 and 55-64 years old, married individuals, participants with high educational attainment, residents of Athens and employed persons displaying greatest changes. One-month prevalence of MD was also linked to financial strain. The economic crisis seems to impinge on the mental health of the population by triggering MD episodes. Concerted efforts should focus on the prevention and timely treatment of the disorder.