Prevalence and Correlates of Depressive Symptoms among North Korean Defectors Living in South Korea for More than One Year

Objective: This study examined the prevalence and correlates of depressive symptoms in North Korean defectors who have been living in South Korea for more than one year.

Methods: We used questionnaires developed by the authors to collect sociodemographic data in addition to the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), the Psychosocial Well-being Index to measure stress, and a social support scale. A total of 367 subjects were included in this study.

Results: The results showed that 30.5% of the men and 34.7% of the women reported depressive symptoms, and 33.1% of the men and 36.1% of the women exhibited signs of severe distress. Correlates of depressive symptoms were lack of occupation [odds ratio (OR)=2.198, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.247-3.873], having escaped without family (OR=1.725, 95% CI, 1.006-2.959), and a poor subjective sense of health status (OR=3.111, 95% CI, 1.591-6.085).

Conclusion: Continuing vocational training and career management, psychological support programs, and intensive physical health services are needed to improve the mental health of this population.