Predicting Depression in Middle-Aged Individuals in Tehran Based on Socioeconomic Status, Loneliness, Spiritual Well-Being, and Marital Satisfaction in 2023

Introduction: Information related to the amount of the most significant risk factors identified in relation to depression in middle-aged Iranian individuals is insufficient. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to predict depression in middle-aged residents of Tehran based on their socioeconomic status, feelings of loneliness, spiritual well-being, and marital satisfaction. Methods: This cross-sectional study employed a quantitative descriptive-correlational approach and regression analysis. A total of 216 middle-aged individuals visiting health centers in Tehran in 2023 were selected through convenience sampling. Participants completed questionnaires assessing marital satisfaction (Hudson), social-emotional loneliness in adults, spiritual well-being (Dehshiri et al.), socioeconomic status (SES), and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II). Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted using SPSS version 24 to examine the relationship between predictor variables and depression. Rusults: Among the 216 middle-aged participants in Tehran, aged between 40 and 60 years, 47/68% were male (103 individuals) and 52/31% were female (113 individuals). The prevalence of depression among middle-aged individuals in Tehran was found to be 46/3% (100 individuals). Notably, only spiritual well-being significantly predicted the variability in depression among middle-aged individuals in Tehran (B=0/19, p< 0/01). Conclusion: Contrary to previous studies, socioeconomic status, loneliness, and marital satisfaction did not statistically predict the variability in depression among middle-aged individuals in Tehran. It is recommended that further research be conducted to identify the most significant risk factors associated with depression in this demographic.