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Self-Reported and Diagnosed Depression in Rural Colorado: Findings from the San Luis Valley Community Health Survey
- Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved
- Johns Hopkins University Press
- Volume 31, Number 4, November 2020
- pp. 1573-1586
- 10.1353/hpu.2020.0119
- Article
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Abstract:
Purpose. To gain a better understanding of depression in a rural community, survey results were used to compare differences in self-reported depressive symptoms and medical professional diagnosed depression among demographic groups. Methods. A chi-square test of independence was performed to examine relationships among the depression-related variables. Logistic regression analyses were also performed to ascertain the effects of demographic characteristics and social support on depression. Findings. A statistically significant association was found between the two depression-related variables (X2=145.17, P <.001). Income was significantly associated with both depression-related variables. Hispanic ethnicity, higher income, and some high school education were associated with decreased odds of self-reported medically diagnosed depression. Those reporting no or some social support had increased odds of both depression-related variables compared with those who reported always having social support. Conclusions. These findings provide a better understanding of depression in a rural community and may inform future public health interventions.