1 research outputs found
The Epidemiology of Nonspecific Psychological Distress in New York City, 2002 and 2003
The 30-day prevalence of nonspecific psychological distress (NPD) is 3%,
nationwide. Little is known about the prevalence and correlates of NPD in urban
areas. This study documents the prevalence of NPD among adults in New York City
(NYC) using population-based data from the 2002 and 2003 NYC Community Health
Surveys (CHS) and identifies correlates of NPD in this population. We examined two
cross-sectional random-digit-dialed telephone surveys of NYC adults (2002: N = 9,764;
2003: N = 9,802). Kessler’s K6 scale was used to measure NPD. Age-adjusted 30-day
prevalence of NPD declined from 6.4% [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 5.8–7.0] in
2002 to 5.1% [95% CI: 4.5–5.6] in 2003. New Yorkers who were poor, in poor health,
chronically unemployed, uninsured, and formerly married had the highest prevalence
of NPD. Declines occurred among those who were married, white, recently
unemployed, and female. NPD prevalence in NYC is higher than national estimates.
A stronger economy and recovery from September 11th attacks may have contributed
to the 2003 decline observed among selected subgroups. The excess prevalence of NPD
may be associated with substantial economic and societal burden. Research to understand
the etiology of this high prevalence and interventions to promote mental health
in NYC are indicated.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/40312/2/McVeigh_The Epidemiology of Nonspecific Psychological Distress_2006.pd