Trajectories of mental health across baby boomers: latent growth curve modeling for depression

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis study examines the trajectories of mental health across baby boomers to understand their mental health during middle age. This study used secondary data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 (NLSY79) and used four points in time to estimate trajectories of mental health during adulthood. This study included 834 participants who were born in 1959. The Latent Growth Curve Model (LGCM) was used for modeling and estimating the trajectories of mental health. The trajectories of mental health show non-linear change even after considering longitudinal changes of variables. The trajectories indicate a V-shaped curve: higher depression at 34 and 50 years of age and the lowest depression at 40 years. Males predicted lower intercepts of depression and those with higher self-esteem showed lower depression initially. This study provides further evidence for understanding baby boomers’ mental health during their adulthood within a longitudinal setting by using a nationwide sample. More specialized interventions and services should be considered for females’ mental health problems over time. It is also important to help individuals develop and cultivate their self-esteem before entering into middle age.