Disability and depression: some etiological considerations

Abstract

Although the literature on this subject is fraught with ambiguity, it appears that there is a higher incidence of depression in people with disabilities than in the general population. The etiology of the disorder is by no means clear but several of the explanations which exist for depression in general, appear particularly suited when considering the disabled population. In this article, theoretical origins of the relationship between depression and disability are explored under two broad headings: Biological Factors and Psychosocial Factors. Clinical interventions and social-ecological implications pertinent to the various etiologies are discussed in relation to facilitating psychosocial adjustment and preventing serious depression. Problems of definition and methodology are noted and the importance of focusing attention on this high-risk population is stressed.