Depressive symptoms among adults in Germany

Abstract

Depressive symptoms imply a loss of quality of life, leading to increased morbidity and mortality as well as increased costs to the healthcare system. Information on the prevalence and distribution of depressive symptoms in the population is essential in light of planning prevention and care. GEDA 2014/2015-EHIS surveyed current depressive symptoms among adults in Germany through the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8). The surveyed prevalence of 10.1% indicates the widespread occurrence of depressive symptoms, regardless of an actual clinical diagnosis of depression. Prevalence for women (11.6%) is higher than for men (8.6%). Further differences exist concerning age and education as well as regional differences. The results are discussed in the light of the data available so far.