Measuring Depression in Persons With Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review

J Spinal Cord Med, 2009 · DOI: · Published: February 1, 2009

Simple Explanation

Depression is common after spinal cord injury (SCI) and impacts functional independence, secondary complications, social integration and self-appraised health. One major challenge in measuring depression in SCI is distinguishing whether somatic symptoms are due to SCI, medical conditions, environmental factors, or depression itself. This study systematically reviewed existing research on the reliability and validity of depression measures used in SCI populations.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

377 abstracts screened, 24 studies included

Evidence Level

Systematic Review

Key Findings

1
There is a lack of psychometric data on depression measures used with the SCI population.
2
Reliability data were limited to internal consistency and were consistently good to excellent across 19 studies.
3
Different depression measures appear to perform equally well in SCI populations based on available evidence.

Research Summary

This systematic review examined the psychometric properties of depression measures used in spinal cord injury (SCI) populations. The review found a lack of psychometric data, particularly regarding validity, for depression measures used in SCI populations. The study recommends further research to validate existing depression measures for use in SCI populations and cautions against implementing universal depression screening programs until sufficient evidence supports their effectiveness and appropriateness.

Practical Implications

Further Validation Studies

There is a need to more rigorously and widely evaluate the depression measures we are routinely using in research.

Clinical Screening

Screening for depression remains important in clinical settings.

Measure Selection

Clinicians should base their decisions on the particular needs of their patient, the scope of their practice and resources available.

Measuring Depression in Persons With Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Further Validation Studies

Clinical Screening

Measure Selection

Study Limitations

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Measuring Depression in Persons With Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Further Validation Studies

Clinical Screening

Measure Selection

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?