Predictors of Treatment Utilization in Major Depression

Abstract

Suicide attempters with major depression are at risk for repeat attempts and often do not utilize treatment. Identifying predictors of treatment non-utilization could inform interventions to motivate treatment use and reduce suicide risk in major depression. Two hundred and seventy three participants with a major depressive episode as part of a major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder, were assessed for socio-demographic and clinical characteristics at baseline and again 1 year later to identify predictors of treatment utilization. Treatment utilization rate was high 1 year after initial evaluation (72.5%). Severity of baseline depression, baseline treatment status, and education were associated with treatment utilization at 1 year. Interventions focused on increasing knowledge about depression and treatment efficacy may improve treatment adherence when treating depression.

Keywords:

• major depression
• psychiatric treatment
• suicide attempt
• utilization

Acknowledgments

This article was supported by PHS grants, MH48514 and MH62185 (Conte Neuroscience Center), P20 AA015630, MH59710 and the Stanley Medical Research Institute.

Notes

Note. Wald = 48.59, (df = 1), p = <.001.