Why is Psychological Distress Important in Epidemiology?
Understanding psychological distress is crucial in epidemiology for several reasons:
Prevalence and Incidence: Determining the prevalence (existing cases) and incidence (new cases) of psychological distress helps in understanding the burden of mental health problems in a population. Risk Factors: Identifying risk factors such as socioeconomic status, physical health conditions, and lifestyle choices can aid in targeted interventions. Public Health Implications: Psychological distress can lead to various adverse outcomes, including substance abuse, chronic diseases, and increased healthcare utilization, impacting public health policies and resource allocation.
