Identification of Risk and Protective Factors: A Study of Major Depressive Disorder Among Indigenous Adults in Toronto
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Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) prevalence in Indigenous communities is higher than in the general population. Objective: To determine the risk and protective factors associated with MDD among Indigenous peoples living in Toronto. Database: Our Health Counts Toronto (OHCT) database, the largest urban Indigenous health study of 897 Indigenous adult participants, was accessed for analysis. Methods: Performed analyses using weighted generalized linear mixed modelling approaches. Results: Factors protecting against MDD include having a strong connection to Indigenous identity, smoking, and hallucinogen use. Risk factors for MDD include only completing a high school education and use of cannabis, crack, and amphetamine. Conclusion: The findings in this study suggest potential areas for preemptive measures against MDD, including establishing programs to help support a strong sense of cultural identity.