Are endurance runners at higher risk of depression? Screening for depression and risk factors.

Depression is an important public health issue. In the general adult population about 6.7% are affected. Little data are available in endurance runners. We conducted a prospective survey study screening for depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and investigating potential associated risk factors in endurance runners (21.1km to 42.2km) and ultra-endurance runners (42.2km). Statistical analysis included descriptive, predictive techniques, and regression analysis. A total of n=601 runners participated (female n=222; male n=379; mean age (SD) 42.8 years (± 10.1)). Overall, 11.3% screened positive for major depression, particularly female runners compared to male (p=0.002) and endurance runners compared to ultra-endurance runners (p=0.023). No significant differences were observed among performance levels (elite vs non-elite). Mild depression was observed in 21.6% of runners. Factors associated with a higher risk for screening for major depression included age (p<0.001), particularly runners under the ages of 28 years, previous self-reported history of depression (p<0.001), more frequent weekly workouts (4-5 per week) (p=0.021), weeks lost to injury (p=0.022), and female sex (p=0.025). A third of endurance and ultra-endurance runners screened positive for depression, highlighting the importance of creating awareness for mental health issues and potential screening for athletes, providing access to appropriate support services and education.

Publication History

Received: 14 October 2024

Accepted after revision: 02 December 2024

Accepted Manuscript online:
03 December 2024