Who’s Diagnosed With Depression?

Insights From the BRFSS Survey

Chaim Gordon

  • Objective: Explore patterns in self-reported depression using survey data.
  • Constant Outcome: Ever diagnosed with depression (Yes/No).
  • Key Dimensions Explored:
    • Demographics (Age, Sex)
    • Socioeconomics (Income, Education)
    • Lifestyle (BMI, Physical Activity)
    • Access & Needs (Food Insecurity, Insurance)
    • Psychosocial (Stress, Emotional Support)

Summary

  • Age & Sex: Younger adults report higher depression, with women consistently above men.
  • Income & Education: Rates fall as these rise.
  • BMI & Exercise: Higher BMI and lower activity link to higher prevalence.
  • Food Insecurity & Insurance: Food insecurity is strongly associated with higher depression prevalence.
    • Barriers to diagnosis for the uninsured.
  • Stress & Support: Frequent stress and lack of emotional support correlate with depression.