Depression More Severe Among Blacks

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Depression More Severe Among Blacks

(March 9, 2007) -- More whites have depression than blacks, but the condition can be more severe in blacks.

A new study from the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston looked at the prevalence, persistence, treatment and disability of depression in three racial groups based on data from a national survey conducted between 2001 and 2003. Roughly 6,082 people took the survey -- 891 non-Hispanic whites; 1,621 Caribbean blacks of West Indian or Caribbean descent; and 3,570 African-Americans with no ancestral ties to the Caribbean.

The survey found more whites than African Americans or Caribbean blacks experienced depression during their lives. But fewer than half of the African Americans and less than a quarter of the Caribbean blacks who had depression received treatment. Compared to whites, these black groups were also more likely to rate their major depressive disorder as 'severe' or 'very severe'. They also rated it as more disabling.

Researchers say studying why blacks are less likely to develop depression but fare worse once they become depressed could help psychologists better understand the condition.

"Future research should explore the extent to which social support systems, including religious participation and psychological resources, such as high levels of self-esteem, can provide some protection to the black population from exposure to adverse social conditions," study authors write. "The findings of this study highlight the importance of identifying high-risk subgroups in racial populations and the continuing need to target cost-effective interventions to them."

Major depression is the fourth leading cause of disability around the world. Previous research suggests although blacks have a lower rate of depression, they may have less access to mental health services and often receive worse care.

Source: Archives of General Psychiatry

Last updated: 03/07

Depression More Severe Among Blacks

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