Depression, Healthcare Utilization, Missed Work, and Health Behaviors among U.S. Young Workers: Data from the 2015 National Health Interview Survey.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE\nWe examined the prevalence of depression and its impact on healthcare utilization, work absenteeism, and health behaviors among United States (U.S.) young workers.\n\n\nMETHODS\nData of 1,053 young workers (ages 18-25) from the 2015 U.S. National Health Interview Survey were analyzed to examine these associations.\n\n\nRESULTS\nSeven percent of U.S. young workers reported feeling often depressed (daily or weekly). Often depressed young workers had increased odds for healthcare provider visits, mental healthcare use, 1-2 emergency department visits, and 3-5 and ≥ 6 missed work days, smoking and sleeping < 7\u200ahours.\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nOur findings suggest that depressed young workers have increased needs for healthcare utilization and are at increased risk for missing work, smoking, and reduced sleep. Resources should be prioritized for depression screening and prevention programs at the workplace and healthcare settings.