Association between mood and anxiety disorders and self-reported disability: Results from a nationally representative sample of Canadians

Abstract

Background: Mental disorders represent a significant burden to individuals and society. They can lead to occupational impairment, disruption in interpersonal and family relationships, poor health and suicide.

Aims: This study aimed to examine socio-economic and demographic factors associated with mood and/or anxiety disorders and to assess the relation of these disorders with short-term disability and work activity.

Methods: This study used data collected in the 2005 Canadian Community Health Survey (N = 108,986).

Results: Higher rates of mood and/or anxiety disorders were found among women, the 30–69 years old, the single/divorced/widowed, Canadian-born, low-income participants and those with chronic physical illness. The presence of mood and/or anxiety disorders was significantly associated with short-term disability, requiring help with daily activities and reduction/modification of work activity.

Conclusions: Our findings underscore the importance of early detection and treatment of mental disorders, especially in those at higher risk of developing them.

Keywords:

• Mood
• anxiety
• disability
• quality of life

Declaration of interest: The author reports no conflicts of interest. The author alone is responsible for the content and writing of the paper.