Significant Predictors Of Depressive Symptoms Research Articles

Influence of Health Status, Cognitive Function, and Social Capital on Depressive Symptoms in Korean Older Adults.

The current study explored the influence of health status, cognitive function, and social capital on depressive symptoms in Korean older adults. Data from the National Survey of Older Koreans, conducted by the Korean Institute for Health and Social Affairs in 2017, were used. Social capital was measured by dividing it into structural and cognitive social capital. Final analysis included 6,100 individuals aged ≥65 years (mean age = 72.6, SD = 5.8 years; 3,466 males [56.8%], 2,634 females [43.2%]). Multiple hierarchical regression analysis indicated that age, income, economic activity status, religion, household type, self-rated health, apoplexy (e.g., stroke, cerebral infarction), cognitive function, structural social capital, and cognitive social capital were significant predictors of depressive symptoms in older adults. This study suggests that researchers and clinicians should consider the factors associated with self-rated health, cognitive social capital, and economic status (income and economic activity) to prevent or alleviate depressive symptoms in older adults. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 58(10), 24-31.].

Differential Effects of Social Support by Sexual Orientation: A Study of Depression Symptoms Among Older Canadians in the CLSA.

This study examined differences in symptoms of mental illness, specifically depression, by sexual orientation and examined the protective role of social support among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) older Canadians. Data were drawn from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, a national study of adults aged 45-85 years at baseline (n = 46,157). We examined whether the effect of sexual orientation on depression symptoms was moderated by four types of social support: emotional/informational support, affectionate support, tangible support, and positive social interaction. LGB identification was associated with increased depression symptoms relative to heterosexual participants. After adjustment for covariates, bisexual identity remained a significant predictor of depression symptoms. Low emotional/informational social support was associated with increased depression symptoms, an effect that was most pronounced for lesbian and gay participants. The findings contribute to the growing body of research on the mental health of older LGB people.

Meaning in Life as a Mediator of the Relationship Between Intrinsic Religiosity and Depression Symptoms

The objective of this study was to investigate the mediating effect of meaning in life on the relationship between intrinsic religiosity and depression symptoms. A non-clinical sample of 279 participants answered an online survey. The mean age of participants was 33.19 years old and 72% of them were female. The participants answered the following self-report measures: Intrinsic Religiosity Inventory, Meaning in Life Questionnaire, and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale. Three regression equations were used to test the research hypothesis. In the first regression model, intrinsic religiosity was a statistically significant predictor of meaning in life. In the second model, intrinsic religiosity was a statistically significant predictor of depression symptoms. However, in the third model, when meaning in life was incorporated into the regression model, along with intrinsic religiosity, as possible predictors of depression symptoms, only meaning in life proved to be a statistically significant predictor. The results corroborate the hypothesis that meaning in life mediates the relationship between intrinsic religiosity and depression symptoms. Therefore, intrinsic religiosity has a protective effect against depression symptoms; however, it occurs indirectly, via meaning in life.

Anthropometric, Dietary and Psychological Risk Factors for Prevalence of Depression and Anxiety Among Adolescents Studying in Public Schools of Delhi

Abstract Objectives The present research was designed to study the prevalence & association of depression & anxiety with anthropometric, dietary and psychological risk factors among adolescent boys & girls studying in public schools of Delhi. Methods 546 adolescents participated in this cross-sectional study. Child Behaviour Checklist was used to assess depression and anxiety symptoms. Data pertaining to sociodemographic profile (pre-tested), eating behavior (Three Factor Eating Questionnaire), body image perception and locus of control (standardized questionnaire), dietary intake (two day 24 hour recall and food frequency questionnaire), and anthropometric parameters (BMI and body fat%) were collected and statistically analysed. Results Prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms was 33.51% and 27.47% respectively. As per the multi-variable regression models, subjects who reported cognitive restrained eating (OR:1.41 95% CI: 1.17–1.71 P = 0.0004) and emotional eating behavior (OR:1.18 95% CI: 1.05–1.33 P = 0.0041) had statistically significant higher odds for developing depressive symptoms. In males, subjects who were skipping breakfast (OR: 19.19 95% CI: 3.83–96.20 P = 0.0003) and were not consuming milk in breakfast (OR: 0.14 95% CI: 0.05–0.36 P = < 0.0001) had significantly higher odds of getting depressed. In females, weight management practices was a significant psychological predictors of depression symptoms. Female subjects who were skipping their meals, especially breakfast (OR: 43.10 95% CI: 1.44 - 1292.10 P = 0.0301) had significantly higher odds of getting depressed than the non-skippers. Deviation from the normal weight category was significant predictor of depressive symptoms in male and female subjects. Underweight (OR:118.46 95% CI:31.92–439.62 P = < 0.0001), overweight and obese (OR:37.21 95% CI:14.14–97.88 P = < 0.0001) males had significantly higher odds of getting depressed. Body fat % was also a significant predictor of depressive symptoms in male adolescents (P = 0.0079). Female subjects in underweight, overweight and obese categories also had significantly higher odds of getting depressed. Similar pattern of associations and risk factors were also reported for anxiety symptoms. Conclusions The study serve as a strategic tool for mental health prevention & management policies designed for adolescents. Funding Sources UGC.

Relationship between social support and depressive symptoms in collegiate student athletes

ABSTRACT Depression levels in collegiate athletes are consistent with or higher than those of the general population [Cox (2015). Investigating the prevalence and risk-factors of depression symptoms among NCAA Division I collegiate athletes (Doctoral dissertation, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville); Prinz, Dvořák, & Junge (2016). Symptoms and risk factors of depression during and after the football career of elite female players. British Journal of Medicine and Sport Open Sport & Exercise Medicine, 2(1), e000124; Wolanin, Hong, Marks, Panchoo, & Gross (2016). Prevalence of clinically elevated depressive symptoms in college athletes and differences by gender and sport. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 50(3), 167–171], warranting examination of probable causes and protective factors. This study examined depressive symptoms in collegiate athletes and how they relate to different types and sources of social support. The student athlete population at a Division I university (N = 238) completed a survey on depressive symptoms (i.e., Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale) [CES-D; Radloff (1977). The CES-D scale. Applied Psychological Measurement, 1(3), 385–401] and social support (i.e., Berlin Social Support Scale; [BSSS; Schulz & Schwarzer (2003). Soziale Unterstützung bei der Krankheitsbewältigung. Die Berliner social support Skalen (BSSS) [Social support in coping with illness: The Berlin social support scales (BSSS)]. Diagnostica, 49(2), 73–82]four open-ended questions). Higher levels of social support were correlated with fewer depressive symptoms. Multiple regression revealed tangible support from athletic sources, need for support, and tangible support from personal sources were significant predictors of depressive symptoms, (F = 23.2, p <.001). Most beneficial soources of support were teammates (n=20) and non-athletic persons (n=19). Athletes wanted more support from coached (n=72). This study offers insight into how best to provide support, which impacts performance and overall mental health.

575 Determining Risk Factors Associated with Development of Depression Following Burn Injury

Abstract Introduction Depression symptoms following burn injury are common, however a tool to risk stratify the likelihood of development of these symptoms does not exist. This study aims to examine the demographic and clinical factors associated with depression symptoms at 12 months post-injury. This data will be used to develop a depression risk scoring system. Methods Data from the Burn Model System National Database (2015–2019) were analyzed. Depression subscale scores of the PROMIS-29 were examined at 12 months and those with scores greater than 60 were considered to have depression symptoms. Demographic and clinical characteristics of the study population were compared between those with and without depression symptoms. Predictors of depression symptoms at 12 months post-injury were determined using multivariate logistic regression. Results The analysis included 298 individuals (52 with and 246 without depression symptoms). Those with depression symptoms at 12 months post-injury were more likely to be female, have had psychological treatment in the year prior to injury, and have sustained a suspected self-inflicted burn injury. Those with depression symptoms were less likely to be married or working at the time of injury compared to those without depression symptoms. No differences in age, burn size, race/ethnicity, etiology of injury, or education level were observed between groups (Table 1). Psychological therapy or counseling in the year prior to injury was the only significant predictor of depression symptoms at 12 months post-injury (p= 0.016). Age and female gender approached significance (p=0.092 and p= 0.086, respectively). Conclusions A history of recent pre-injury psychological treatment was the only significant predictor of depressive symptoms found one-year post-injury. Applicability of Research to Practice This data will be used to create a depression risk scoring system to be used at time of acute care admission to identify burn survivors who are at high risk of developing depression. Identifying those at high risk of depression will facilitate appropriate utilization of resources and potential treatment prophylaxis.

Impact of Status-Based Rejection Sensitivity on Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Gay Men.

Status-based rejection sensitivity refers to the anxious expectation and tendency to perceive rejection in ambiguous social scenarios based on one’s minority identification. This study evaluates the implications of sensitivity to rejection based on sexual orientation identity on negative mental health outcomes. Current minority stress models include rejection sensitivity as a factor that may contribute to adverse negative psychosocial outcomes in LGBT persons. This study evaluates the role of rejection sensitivity alongside demographically relevant predictors such as age, race, education, and level of sexuality disclosure in predicting the presence of significant depression and anxiety scores among a sample of gay men. Results indicate that rejection sensitivity, sexuality openness, and anxiety were significant predictors of depression symptoms, whereas age and depression were significant predictors of anxiety symptoms. This study supports the role of rejection sensitivity as a contributor to negative mental health outcomes among gay men, particularly as it pertains to internalizing mental health disorders.

The Association among Glycemic Control and Depression Symptoms in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes.

Introduction:Diabetes and depression are two common and major non-communicable diseases with significant disease burdens worldwide.Aim:The aim of this study is to obtain the association among A1C levels and symptoms of depression in patients with type 2 diabetes in family medicine offices.Methods:This cross-sectional study was carried out between June 2016 and July 2017. We recruited 150 adults with type 2 diabetes from various family medicine offices. The study questionnaire had two parts; the first one for participants and the second one for family medicine physicians. Participants completed the part of the questionnaire with the PHQ-9 scale and questions regarding demographic data. Family medicine physicians completed the part of the questionnaire with questions concerning clinical data. A univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis was conducted to identify significant predictors of depressive symptoms revealed by the PHQ-9 score.Results:Multiple linear regression showed that the level of A1C was a significant predictor of the PHQ-9 score in all three models. Increases in the A1C level were followed by increases in depressive symptoms. Other significant predictors of a positive PHQ-9 score were smoking, level of education and income.Conclusion:The level of A1C as an indicator of glycemic control has been shown to have a significant association with the scores of the PHQ-9 questionnaire, which identifies the intensity of symptoms of depression. An increase in the level of A1C is followed by an increase in the intensity of symptoms of depression.

Sexual functioning as predictor of depressive symptoms and life satisfaction in females with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Background & Objective:PCOS is the one of the frequently diagnosed endocrine syndrome in Pakistani women. However, little attention has been devoted to empirical investigation of the role of sexual dysfunction in developing depressive symptoms and reducing life satisfaction. Our objective was to determine the contribution of Sexual dysfunction in developing depressive symptoms and life dissatisfaction in females diagnosed with PCOS.Methods:This correlation study was carried out from 1st September 2019 to 15th February 2020 at COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus. A sample of 60 women with PCOS between reproductive age 18 – 38 years (Mage = 27.86, SD = 4.58) was selected through purposive sampling technique from the government hospitals of Lahore, Pakistan. The participants responded to a Demographic Information Form, Female Sexual Functioning Index, Siddiqui Shah Depression and Life Satisfaction Scale.Results:Correlation analysis revealed significant positive link of sexual dysfunction with depressive symptoms and negative link with life satisfaction level. Further, regression analysis revealed sexual functioning as significant predictor of depressive symptoms only.Conclusion:Sexual dysfunction play a major role in general mental health of females, therefore, screening and identification as well as preventive measure need to be introduced at early level of development. In addition, current study findings suggest that once females are diagnosed with PCOS, they should be provided sufficient counselling services in order to deal with depressive symptoms and feeling of low life satisfaction. Further, targeted interventions and counselling services may also facilitate in optimising patient care.

Perceived Discrimination and Depressive Symptoms: Is the Cognitive Triad a Moderator or Mediator?

The present study sought to determine whether the cognitive triad serves as a moderator or mediator in the association between perceived everyday discrimination (PED) and depressive symptoms among inner-city youth by examining if discrimination is related to both cognitive processes and depressive symptoms in adolescents. Previous research illustrated that by eighth grade, cognitive styles begin to moderate the relations of stressful events and depressive symptoms. We hypothesized that PED and the cognitive triad interact in their association with depressive symptoms. Participants included 232 ninth-grade students (M = 14.18 years, 38% female) from an inner-city public high school who completed measures examining PED, the cognitive triad, and depressive symptoms. Participants identified as Black or African American (46.5%), White or European American (37.0%), Mixed Race (12.2%), Other Race (2.6%), and Latino/a (1.7%). A hierarchical linear regression testing the moderation model found PED and the cognitive triad to be significant predictors of depressive symptoms. The interaction effect, however, was non-significant, in contrast with our hypothesis. Additionally, a significant indirect effect of PED on depressive symptoms through the cognitive triad was established which supported a partial mediation. Our findings support a partial mediation model in understanding the relationship between PED, the cognitive triad, and depressive symptoms. Based on this, psychologists should intervene on a societal level to reduce PED, as well as on an individual level with regard to modifying the cognitive triad in order to alleviate depressive symptoms in adolescents.

“Too much to handle”: Impact of mobile social networking sites on information overload, depressive symptoms, and well-being

Mobile social networking sites (SNS) are frequently theorized to lead to perceived information overload, which may affect the well-being of individuals in negative ways. However, the available body of research is mainly based on cross-sectional data. Based on the limited capacity model of motivated mediated message processing (Lang, 2002), we tested the over-time relationships between mobile SNS use, information overload, depressive symptoms, and well-being in a two-wave panel study. Using a quota sample of adults (NT2 = 461), we found that YouTube use increased perceived information overload for all individuals. WhatsApp and Snapchat use did only lead to perceived information overload for older adults. Facebook as well as Instagram use were unrelated to perceived information overload. Furthermore, perceptions of information overload were a significant predictor of depressive symptoms, which in turn, negatively influenced individuals’ well-being over time. Implications of these findings are discussed.

Stress and Depressive Symptoms Among Demographically Diverse American Pregnant Women

Pregnancy is a sensitive period of life where mental health is of utmost importance to the mother’s and child’s well-being peripartum and beyond. To better prevent and treat common mental health conditions such as depressive symptoms and perceived stress (defined in this study to encompass psychological and physiological (heart rate variability (HRV)) dimensions), it is crucial to examine and report differences in mental health outcomes among demographically diverse pregnant women. Therefore, the purpose of this secondary analysis (N = 79) was to determine if there are differences in mental health outcomes between pregnant women who differ across demographic factors, as well as to determine if demographic factors predict mental health outcomes when controlling for other demographic variables. Findings indicate that there were significant differences in depressive symptoms and perceived stress by all demographic factors except age. Marital status and total household income were the only significant predictors of depressive symptoms and perceived stress, respectively, when all other factors were controlled. There were no significant differences or correlations between demographic variables and HRV. Pregnant women may be predisposed to adverse mental health outcomes, illustrating the need for more refined interventions that are sensitive to pre-existing factors.

THE EARLY BIRD GETS THE WORM, NOT ANXIETY OR DEPRESSION: HOW INSOMNIA SYMPTOMS PREDICT ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

Symptoms of insomnia are associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety in older adults, yet less is known about the impact of specific forms of insomnia (i.e. onset, maintenance, and terminal insomnia). We explored how insomnia type predicted symptoms of anxiety and depression in older adults (n = 133; mean age 69, range 65-89). We hypothesized that onset and maintenance insomnia would have stronger relations to depression and anxiety than terminal insomnia. Regression analyses indicated that onset insomnia was the only significant predictor of anxiety symptoms, and maintenance was the only significant predictor of depressive symptoms. Thus, our findings suggest that despite overlap between depression and anxiety, insomnia may have different mechanisms of affecting each disorder. Implications for the treatment of anxiety and depressive symptoms by addressing insomnia problems will be discussed.

PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS INFLUENCING DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AMONG OLDER ADULTS FROM NORTHERN INDIA

Global data show a significant increase in the number of adults 65+ years of age in India. Despite this increase, there is a dearth of available resources to adequately service their mental health needs. Data indicate that residents in Northern India, in particular, report poorer mental health outcomes than those in the South. The prevalence and impact of neuropsychiatric disorders and depression remain particularly significant, but largely unexplored. The aim of this study was to examine possible psychosocial and health factors affecting depressive symptoms in North India. Data were taken from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI). Participants included adults aged 45 years and above (n=792), from the states of Rajasthan and Punjab. A multiple linear regression model was calculated to determine the influence of identified demographic and psychosocial factors (e.g., financial and social support, life satisfaction) on depressive symptoms. Data show that low life satisfaction (β= -0.19,p<0.001), poorer self-reported health (β=0.15,p<0.01), and being a care provider (β= -0.12,p<0.01) were significant predictors of depressive symptoms. These results indicate an increased need for care-giver mental health support along with policy aimed at awareness about caregiver burnout, health care access, and economic instrumental support services. A magnified view of the impact of life satisfaction on depression will be of immense value for understanding the unique needs and challenges of working with this population.

EVERYDAY ACTIVITIES AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS: DOES GENDER MATTER?

Previous research has suggested that informal socializing can be beneficial for mental health, whereas prior findings concerning solitary activities and mental health have been equivocal. Activity theory posits that involvement in activities – particularly social activities – can improve adults’ self-concept and self-esteem, leading to improved well-being. Solitary activities may perform the same function, though without any social reinforcement. However, social engagement and mental health may both vary by gender. Thus, we examined associations of informal socializing and solitary activities with depressive symptoms among 13,387 respondents of the 2012/2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, and further assessed potential gender differences. Results revealed that both informal socializing and solitary activities were significantly associated with lower depressive symptoms when analyzed separately. However, when both types of activities were modeled simultaneously, only informal socializing remained significant. Further, stratified analyses revealed that informal socializing was a significant predictor of depressive symptoms among women but not men, although these coefficients were not significantly different from each other. Overall, findings suggest that both informal socializing and solitary activities may be beneficial for mental health, yet results were clearly stronger for informal socializing. Socializing may benefit mental health not only by bolstering one’s self-concept, but also by linking adults with social ties and support networks that are instrumental for well-being in mid- and later life. Moreover, gender differences in effects were minimal and largely non-significant, indicating that activity involvement can bolster mental health for men and women alike.

POWER OF SOCIAL SUPPORT AGAINST DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS OF OLDER AFRICAN AMERICANS

Depressive symptomatology is one of the most prevalent mental health problems. About 20% of Americans experience depressive symptoms in their lives (Gotlib & Hammen, 2014). Social support, on the other hand, was proved to be a powerful buffer against depressive symptoms of older adults (Kim & Ross, 2009; Sheiman & Meersman, 2004). Few studies have explored this association exclusively among older African Americans who had a culture of powerful social support. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to compare the effects of different sources of social support (from spouse/partner, children, relatives, and friends) against depressive symptoms among older African Americans. This study analyzed the 2014 Health and Retirement Study (HRS; N = 187). Depressive symptomatology was operationalized as a count outcome (number of having symptoms; CES-D8 scale). A negative binomial regression model of depressive symptoms showed that higher levels of spousal support were associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms (coefficient = –.179, p < .001). For each additional score in spousal support, the expected log count of the number of depressive symptoms was decreased by .179. Other sources of social support were not significant predictors of depressive symptoms among older African Americans in this study. Among the covariates, self-rated health (coefficient = .358, p < .001) and household income (logged; coefficient = –.275, p = .014) were significant. The current study supported the results of previous studies showing the power of positive spousal interactions against depressive symptomatology, especially among a nationally representative sample of older African Americans.

Getting by with a Little Help from Our Friends: The Role of Social Support in Addressing HIV-related Mental Health Disparities among Sexual Minorities in the Lower Rio Grande Valley

ABSTRACT This study examines how social support and perceived discrimination influence depressive symptoms of sexual minorities (including, lesbian, gay, bisexual-identifying individuals, and others with same-sex sexual partners) relative to heterosexual peers, while considering the role of HIV-positive status. We surveyed low-income, predominantly Hispanic/Latino/as residents receiving STI-testing and/or HIV/AIDS care in the lower Rio Grande Valley of southernmost Texas. Respondents aged 18+ took a self-administered survey in English or Spanish in a clinic waiting room (N= 273). Based on OLS regression, HIV-positive status (OLS coefficient = 2.54, p< .01) and social support (OLS coefficient = −0.17, p< .001) were significant predictors of depressive symptoms among sexual minorities, but not those who identified as heterosexual. Perceived discrimination was uniquely associated with increased depressive symptoms among sexual minorities (interaction coefficient = 0.21, p< .05). Clinicians treating sexual minority patients for depression should consider developing and applying resources tailored to individuals’ level of social support and ongoing experiences of social discrimination.

Assessment of psychological distress among cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy in Saudi Arabia.

BackgroundCancer patients under psychological distress have reduced compliance with treatment and prolonged hospitalizations. Identifying cancer patients who may be more likely to suffer from psychological distress over the disease trajectory is essential to targeting the proper interventions and providing the best care. In this descriptive cross-sectional study, we aim to assess the levels of emotional and physical distress, depressive symptoms, and social concerns of cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment in Saudi Arabia.MethodsA total of 148 cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy from five different public tertiary-level hospitals in Saudi Arabia participated in this study. The survey was conducted by a trained researcher from November 2015 through April 2016. The Psycho-Oncology Screening Tool was used to identify levels of distress of cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Emotional and physical distress, depressive symptoms, and social concerns in receiving psychosocial services were assessed.ResultsThe findings show above average levels of physical and emotional distress was (342.07±78.9) and social concerns was (7.27±1.68). Age was a significant predictor of psychological distress and in social concerns (P<0.05). Marital status and employment status emerged as significant predictors of depressive symptoms and social concerns (<0.05), (P<0.001), respectively. The patients’ type of cancer was significantly associated with the level of physical distress, emotional distress, and depressive symptoms (P<0.05).ConclusionCancer patients undergoing radiotherapy displayed above-average levels of distress. This may have significant implications on their adherence for treatment and patient outcomes. Routine screening and support services or psychosocial care for patients are warranted among cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.

Psychological treatments for depression among women experiencing intimate partner violence: findings from a randomized controlled trial for behavioral activation in Goa, India

Intimate partner violence (IPV) strongly predicts depression, but it is unknown if women experiencing IPV can benefit from depression treatments in contexts where depression and IPV are prevalent. This study explored whether women experiencing IPV in Goa, India, can benefit from the Healthy Activity Program (HAP), a culturally adapted behavioral activation treatment, compared with enhanced usual care (EUC). Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses were performed on data from a clinical trial. Measures assessed at baseline and 3 and 12 months included depressive symptoms. Measures assessed at 3 and 12 months included activation and IPV. Independent t tests were conducted to assess if participants experiencing IPV had higher depressive symptoms and lower activation at 3 and 12 months; hierarchical linear regression was conducted to determine if 3-month IPV predicted 12-month depressive symptoms across trial arms (Hypothesis 1). Hierarchical linear regression was then conducted to examine if the relationship between 3-month activation and 12-month depressive symptoms was moderated by 3-month IPV within each trial arm (Hypothesis 2). As expected, participants experiencing IPV had significantly lower activation levels and higher depressive symptoms compared with participants who did not experience IPV at 3 and 12 months in cross-sectional analyses. Similarly, IPV endorsed at 3 months significantly predicted depressive symptoms at 12 months. However, activation was significantly associated with less severe depressive symptoms at 12 months, irrespective of IPV endorsement among HAP participants. For EUC participants, IPV remained the only significant predictor of depressive symptoms at 12 months. Results suggest that women experiencing IPV can still benefit from behavioral activation.

Cognitive fusion and depressive symptoms in women with chronic pain: A longitudinal growth curve modelling study over 12 months

This study aims to (a) explore individual differences in women with chronic pain (CP) in regard to pain intensity, functional impairment, cognitive fusion, and depressive symptoms and (b) longitudinally test whether cognitive fusion is a significant predictor of depression symptoms, while controlling for pain intensity and functional impairment, over a 12-month period. This study follows a longitudinal design and was conducted in a sample of 86 women with CP who responded to an online battery of questionnaires in three equally spaced assessment moments. In order to explore the growth trajectory of variables of interest, latent growth curve models were examined. Also, correlation analyses were conducted between demographic and illness-related variables and depressive symptoms, as well as between all variables in all assessment moments. Cognitive fusion and functional impairment (but not pain intensity) were significantly associated with baseline levels of depressive symptoms. Cognitive fusion significantly predicted the growth trajectory of depressive symptoms, whereas pain intensity and functional impairment did not. No demographic (age, marital status, education, socio-economic) nor illness-related variables (number of CP diagnoses, duration of CP, taking medication) were associated with depressive symptoms at any point. These results suggest that the trajectory of depressive symptoms in women with CP is not predicted by the intensity of pain nor pain-related functional impairment, but rather by the tendency to get entangled with internal experiences (e.g., thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations), which may or may not be related to pain-specific contents. Clinical implications are discussed.