Income on psychological distress and depression treatment in Japanese adults

Objectives: Psychological distress is a health issue of critical importance, especially in people of working age in developed countries including Japan. This study examined the relationships between income and with psychological distress and depression treatment in a national sample of Japanese adults. Methods: Data of 22,624 subjects aged 25 to 59 years obtained from the Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions in 2007 were examined. Health outcomes were psychological distress measured by K6 and subjective complaints, and medical treatment of depression. The relationships between health outcomes and explanatory variables were examined using multiple logistic regression analyses. Results: Higher income was associated with a lower prevalence of psychological distress and depression treatment. The association between psychological distress and income showed a threshold: the lowest income quintile had an especially high prevalence, while other quintiles had similar prevalences. The prevalence of depression treatment in those with psychological distress was significantly lower among the highest income quintile. Conclusions: We found clear relationships of lower income with psychological distress and depression treatment among Japanese population. The finding suggests that people with higher socioeconomic status may be reluctant to consult professionals and receive medical treatment, despite their psychological distress. Comprehensive mental health interventions are required to prevent psychological distress in all socioeconomic strata of the population.