Depression and loneliness in a volunteer sample of adults at a suicide prevention and fund-raising walk: a feasibility study: Depression and loneliness at suicide prevention walk

Background: Loneliness is recognized as a distinct psychological experience separate from depression. This feasibility study explored the prevalence and association of depression and loneliness among adults at a suicide prevention walk, a potentially high risk and vulnerable population for depression, loneliness and suicide.

Methods: Adults completed anonymous loneliness, depression, and physical activity surveys. Based on Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2), adults were classified as screening positive (3 to 6) or negative (0 to 2) for depression. T-tests determined if the revised UCLA Loneliness Score (ULS) differed by depression screening status.

Results: Of the 133 survey participants, 13% screened positive for depression. Positive screens were highest for males, aged 18-35, living alone with a less active lifestyle. Participants averaged 36.8±10.4 on the ULS; 11%(n=13) and 5%(n=6) were classified as experiencing moderate and very high levels of loneliness, respectively. Loneliness was significantly greater for those who screened positive for depression (49±9) compared to those who screened negative (35±9)(p<0.001). ULS and PHQ-2 were positively correlated (r=0.70, p<0.01). Active participants reported less loneliness than less active participants(p<0.01).

Limitations: The findings may be biased due to the volunteer sample composed primarily of female Caucasians.

Conclusion: In a sample that may be at higher risk for depression due to suicide attempts or being suicide loss survivors, 13% screened positive for depression. Loneliness scores were not elevated in this population compared to national estimates. Suicide awareness events may be an efficient and cost-effective public health measure for the screening and appropriate follow-up of physical activity, depression and loneliness.