Prevalence of Stress and Depression by ST-5, PHQ2, and PHQ9, and a Preliminary Study of Their Association with Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of stress and depression by ST-5, PHQ2, and PHQ9 among individuals in Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand, and to examine the association between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and stress and depression risk. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study comprised 280 participants. The Thai-versions of ST-5, PHQ2, and PHQ9 were used to evaluate stress and depression risk. Blood samples were collected to measure complete blood count (CBC). The association between NLR and the risk of stress or depression was analyzed using univariate logistic regression. The strength of association was assessed using odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of stress, at risk of depression and depression exhibited were 10.71%, 15.36%, and 5.00% of all participants, respectively. Moreover, participants who had severe to very severe stress, and moderate to severe depression were found only among females when compared with males. However, no significant association was found between NLR and the risk of stress and depression. Conclusion: Prevalence of stress exhibited 10.71%, at risk of depression showed 15.36%, and depression was found 5% of all participants. The authors suggest that the community-based program for stress management should be provided and early detection of depression by specialist may be useful for reducing incidence and severity of depression, especially in females. To prove the association between NLR and stress and depression risk, further research in depressed patients may be required.