Changing perceptions of mental health in Canada.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Epidemiologic studies typically assess mental health using diagnostic measures or symptom severity measures. However, perceptions are also important. The objective of our study was to evaluate trends in perceived mental health in Canada during the past 20 years using data collected in a series of surveys.

Method

Perceived mental health status, the stressfulness of most days, and perceived general health, have been repeatedly measured in national surveys. In our study, the resulting frequencies and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Distress was also assessed in the same surveys with the Kessler 6 Psychological Distress Scale, and analyzed using mean scores and frequencies based on cut-points. Data synthesis used forest plots. Time trends were assessed using

SUBMITTER: Patten SB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4244878 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature