Social determinants of GHQ score by postal survey

Background To develop interventions to reduce the morbidity associated with depression and anxiety, more information is needed about the social and de mographic determinants of these disorders and the relative contributions of different potential predictors. Methods Using stratified sampling from the Family Health Services Authority (FHSA) register, postal surveys were sent to 61 000 adults across the Nort h Western Regional Health Authority. Psychological morbidity was assessed u sing the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). Nine potential predict ors of morbidity were rated, including socio-demographic details and the pr esence of longstanding limiting physical illness and of a confidante. Logis tic regression analyses were used to consider each of the nine potential pr edictors separately and in combination. Results A total of 38 014 questionnaires were returned (63 per cent). After adjustment for all other variables the strongest predictors of a high GHQ score were the absence of a confidante (odds ratio (OR) 3.64), longstanding limiting physical illness (OR 2.93), unemployment (OR 1.91), being a stude nt (OR 1.78), being female (OR 1.64), single parenthood (OR 1.55) and livin g alone (OR 1.32). GHQ scores were highest in the 18-34 age range. Ethnicit y exerted no significant effect after adjustment for other variables. Conclusion In keeping with other research the data suggest that sociodemogr aphic factors are strong predictors of depression and anxiety. The most vul nerable population groups are those with longstanding limiting physical ill ness and no-one to talk to. This should help in identifying high-risk indiv iduals and informing preventive strategies.