Analysis of the level of depression in perimenopausal women according to sociodemographic characteristics

Abstract Introduction. Historically, perimenopausal period was thought to be associated with mood disorders. Despite many studies, the relationship between menopause and depressed mood has not been fully explained. Aim. The objective of the study was analysis of the level of intensity of depression among women at perimenopausal age according to sociodemographic characteristics. Material and methods. The study covered 268 perimenopausal women who reported to outpatient departments in the city of Lublin. The criteria for the qualification of women into the study group were: age 45-55 years, lack of mental disorders and lack of diseases requiring hospitalization during the period of study. The study was conducted with the method of a diagnostic survey with the use of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and a questionnaire designed by the authors in order to collect demographic data. Results. The mean BDI values obtained in the presented study according to respondents’ age and monthly income showed the lack of depression or mild depression in the group of the women examined. In addition, the mean level of depression according to marital status confirmed the lack of depression in the group of married women, whereas mild depression in the group of those who were single. Conclusions. Analysis of the results of the study indicated that age and marital status were not related with the respondents’ level of depression. Women who possessed a university education had a lower level of depression, compared to those who had elementary/elementary vocational or secondary school education level. Women whose material standard was higher had a lower level of depression. Women who have a poor material standard and lower level of education should be covered by a special psycho-prophylactic care.