Using the National Population Health Survey to Identify Factors Associated with Patterns of Psychological Distress Over 10 Years

Abstract

OBJECTIVE To use longitudinal data to group individuals based on their pattern of episodes of high distress, and to identify the socio-demographic correlates of these groups as well as their healthcare utilization. DATA SOURCES/STUDY DESIGN The National Population Health Survey (NPHS) was used to study 15,254 individuals over a period of 10 years from 1994/95 to 2004/05. We examined the socio-demographic correlates and healthcare utilization of different distress pattern groups. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Significant differences between the no distress, single and multiple distress episode groups were observed on both socio-demographic characteristics and healthcare utilization. CONCLUSIONS Data about the same individuals over time provide better information than data collected at a single point in time. This information can be used to improve planning and provision of mental healthcare services.