Associations Between Lifestyle Factors, Working Environment, Depressive Symptoms and Suicidal Ideation: a Large-Scale Study in Japan

Associations between lifestyle, working environment, depressive symptoms, & suicide ideation were investigated. Variables measured included job stressors, working hours, overtime work, smoking status, alcohol consumption, sleep, exercise, meals, & family factors. A total of 4,118 employees (2,834 men, 1,284 women) in 11 cities & districts across Japan were studied. On stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis, variables associated with depressive symptoms were exposure to high job stress, problem drinking, a feeling of insufficient sleep, absence of confidants, & no use of stress reduction techniques. Problem drinking & absence of confidants were associated with suicide ideation in both men & women. (23 refs.)