September 22, 2020

Depression Reported by US Adults in 2017–2018 and March and April 2020

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Mental Health and Personal Impact

Keywords (Tags): mental health personal impact

• The percentage of US adults with depression increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic from 8% in 2017–2018 to 11% in March 2020 and 14% in April 2020. Using data from the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 screening instrument, Daly et al. found statistically significant increases in depression levels for all population subgroups examined, with the exception of those aged 65+ years and Black participants. In addition, young adults (aged 18–34) experienced a marked increase in depression (13 percentage points), larger than any other age group.

Daly et al. (Sept 15, 2021). Depression Reported by US Adults in 2017–2018 and March and April 2020. Journal of Affective Disorders. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2020.09.065