Depression and Related Factors in Korean Adults During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Outbreak
- Author:
Seo-Hee KIM
1
;
Mi Ah HAN
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Psychiatry Investigation 2022;19(11):965-972
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objective:We aimed to determine the status of depression and its related factors among adult Koreans during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak.
Methods:We used data from the 2020 Korea Community Health Survey (KCHS). We assessed depressive feelings and symptoms using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9 ≥10). In addition, we assessed general and COVID-19–related characteristics, including isolation due to and concerns about COVID-19. We analyzed the data using chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression analyses.
Results:The rates of depressive feelings and symptoms were 5.9% and 2.9%, respectively. Of the adult respondents, 68.5% were concerned about COVID-19, while 75.9% were concerned about economic harm due to COVID-19. The adjusted odds ratios for depressive symptoms assessed using the PHQ-9 were significantly high among women responders, adults aged 19–44 years, low-income households, those who experienced COVID-19–related symptoms, and those concerned about death due to COVID-19 and economic harm due to COVID-19. Similar results were obtained for depressive feeling.
Conclusion:Concerns related to COVID-19 infection are related to depression. This suggests that COVID-19 significantly affects mental health. Therefore, during public health crises, such as new communicable diseases, mental health and the incidence of the infectious disease require assessment and monitoring.
