Major Depression before and during the Covid-19 pandemic – a population-based study among Swedish adults

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: To determine and compare the prevalence of depression and depressive symptoms in 2010 and 2021 in an adult population living in Stockholm at start of participation, Sweden, and study the possible impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Methods: Data were used from 2010 (n=6,641) and 2021 (n=8,863) based on a longitudinal population-based study with the aim to study risk and protective factors for mental health. Self-reported depression was assessed using Major Depression Inventory and in 2021 questions on effects of the Covid-19 pandemic were added. Prevalence was calculated and presented with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Depression and depressive symptoms had increased in 2021 compared with 2010. The highest prevalence was found in women and in the youngest age-group. There was no difference after adjusting for Covid-19 infection in any of the age-groups. Women who experienced life changes related to the pandemic situation had higher rates of depression as well as those who lost their job during the pandemic. Conclusion: During the Covid-19 pandemic, it seems both depression and depressive symptoms become more common. However, we did not find support for a direct effect related to a Covid-19 infection but our results suggest that part of the increase may be due to secondary social and economic consequences of the pandemic.