ADULTS with a history of depression develop long-term physical health conditions approximately 30% faster than those without, according to a large study analysing data from over 172,000 participants.
Depression is commonly understood as a mental health disorder, yet emerging evidence suggests it has significant impacts on physical health. A recent study led by researchers at the University of Edinburgh examined the relationship between depression and the progression of physical illnesses in middle-aged and older adults. Given that depression is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide, understanding its role in broader health outcomes is crucial for informing effective healthcare strategies. The findings highlight the need to move beyond a siloed approach to treatment, advocating for integrated care models that address both mental and physical health.
Researchers analysed data from 172,556 participants in the UK Biobank study, aged between 40 and 71 years. The study tracked 69 physical conditions over an average follow-up period of 6.9 years. At the beginning of the study, individuals with a history of depression had an average of three physical conditions, compared to two in those without depression. Over time, participants with depression accrued an average of 0.2 additional conditions per year, whereas those without depression accrued 0.16 per year—a 30% faster rate of physical illness accumulation. The most commonly developed conditions included osteoarthritis (15.7% vs 12.5%), hypertension (12.9% vs 12.0%), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (13.8% vs 9.6%). Even after adjusting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, the accelerated rate of condition accrual remained significant.
These findings reinforce the idea that depression is a whole-body condition with widespread physiological implications. The current structure of healthcare systems, which tends to treat physical and mental illnesses separately, may not adequately address the needs of individuals with depression who are at increased risk of multimorbidity. A more integrated approach that considers mental health as a crucial component of overall well-being could lead to better long-term health outcomes. Future healthcare strategies should incorporate routine mental health screening in primary care settings and develop holistic treatment plans that address both psychological and physical health conditions. Addressing this intersection could significantly improve patient care and reduce the long-term burden of chronic illnesses associated with depression.
Katrina Thornber, EMJ
Reference
Fleetwood KJ et al. Depression and physical multimorbidity: A cohort study of physical health condition accrual in UK Biobank. PLoS medicine. 2025;22(2):e1004532.
