The point prevalence of depression and associated sociodemographic correlates in the general population of Latvia

Aim To determine the point prevalence of depression in the general Latvian population and to explore the associated sociodemographic characteristics. Methods The study was part of the cross-sectional survey on the general population on substance use in Latvia in 2011. It consisted of face-to-face interviews of a randomised stratified multi-stage probability sample. In total, 4493 persons were included, aged between 15 and 64. To assess depression, the participants were interviewed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9; a score of ≥10 was defined as indicating the presence of a depressive episode. Socio-demographic, subjective health status and alcohol use were assessed using the structured interviews. Logistic regression models were applied to analyze data. Results The point prevalence of depression was 6.7%. The odds of having depression were higher in females, in urban dwellers (though not in the capital city, Riga), in persons with non-Latvian ethnicity, with alcohol dependence, with poor subjective health status and having a dissatisfaction with life. Limitations. Cross-sectional nature of the sampling and the symptom scale used for the assessment of depression. Conclusions The point prevalence of depression in Latvia is within the European average. Certain socio-demographic and health related factors are associated with higher risk of morbidity with depression.