Relationship between sense of coherence and depression, a network analysis

Abstract

The “sense of coherence” incorporates the notion that when life seems comprehensive, manageable, and meaningful for an individual, even under tremendous adversity, this accounts for stamina and confidence. Its absence is associated with mental health problems, including depression. The current analysis aimed to explore the relationship between the sense of coherence and depression through a network analysis approach in a sample of 181 people with depression. The mean age of the individuals in the sample was 35.59 (11.50) years, and 76.8% were females (n = 139). All participants had at least one previous depressive episode; the duration of the current episode was 30.30 (77.30) days. Sense of coherence was assessed using the 13-item Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC-13). The severity of depression was quantified with the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-I). The correlations between the two scales, three networks (i.e., SOC-13; BDI-I and joint SOC-13/BDI-I), and their centrality indices were calculated. The mean SOC-13 was 40.56 ± 9.99, and the mean BDI-I was 49.90 ± 9.26. There was a strong correlation-concordance (− 0.65; 95% CI: − 0.72 to − 0.55) index between the two scales. We identified detailed relationship dynamics between symptoms, clusters, and domains through the novel network analysis approach. The analysis of SOC-13 nodes revealed the pivotal role of social relationships in the network. However, in the depression network, we found a role for affection (in contrast to neglect) and joy (as opposed to boredom). In conclusion, solid and sustainable personal relationships in distress and adversity stand against the burden of depression.