A longitudinal perspective on depression and sense of coherence in a sample of mass-evacuated adults from Kosovo.

Symptoms of depression and Sense of Coherence (SOC) in a sample of mass-evacuated adults from Kosovo were studied using a prospective design with a baseline study and follow-ups at 3 months and 6 months in Sweden, with an additional follow-up after 1.5 years in both Sweden and Kosovo. The 12-item version of the SOC, depression subscales of the General Health Questionnaire, and the Hopkins Symptom Check List-25 were used. At the additional follow-up after 1.5 years, the same measures were used together with clinical diagnostic assessment. Depression scores increased and SOC decreased over time. There was a significant negative correlation between SOC and symptoms of depression on all occasions, and SOC scores could not predict the diagnosis or symptoms of depression. Those who remained in Sweden became significantly more depressed than those who repatriated. The results are discussed in terms of postmigration stress and breakdown of SOC.