Is altruistic behavior associated with major depression onset?
BACKGROUND
Previous cross-sectional study showed altruistic behaviors were harmful on major depression (MD). It is needed to investigate the impact of altruistic behaviors by its contents on the development of MD prospectively.


RESULTS
The National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS) in 1995-1996 and the MIDUS Psychological Experience Follow-Up study in 1998 were analyzed (weighted N = 563). Financial support of 10 or more dollars per month had a significant impact on the development of MD in comparison to no financial support (OR: 2.64, 95% CI: 1.05-6.62). Unpaid assistance and providing emotional support were not significantly associated with the development of MD in later life.


CONCLUSIONS
Those who provide financial contribution to individuals other than family members can be at risk of developing MD.
Fujiwara
Takeo
T
Department of Health Promotion and Research, Section of Behavioral Science, National Institute of Public Health, Wako-shi, Saitama, Japan. tfujiwara@niph.go.jp
D000533:Altruism; D003625:Data Collection; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000209:etiology*; D004198:Disease Susceptibility; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D037921:Gift Giving; D006801:Humans