Trends in symptoms of anxiety and depression among adults in Norway: Evidence from eight population-based surveys (1995-2024)

BackgroundIncreasing symptoms of anxiety and depression among adolescents and emerging adults are well documented, while less attention has been given to how these symptoms have evolved among adults. We aim to describe the development of symptoms of anxiety and depression in the adult population in Norway over the past decades. MethodsFor the first time, we synthesize data from all population-based, cross-sectional surveys of symptoms of anxiety and depression among adults in Norway. Data were extracted from the Living Condition Survey (1998-2012, and 2015-2019), HUNT (1995/97-2017/19), the Tromso Study (2001-2015/16), SAMINOR (2003/04-2012), Quality of Life Survey (2021-2024), the FHUS Agder (2019-2023), FHUS Oslo (2020-2024), and the Students Health and Wellbeing Study (SHoT, 2010-2022). Changes over time in symptoms were examined though sex and age stratified regression models. ResultsData from the eight population-based studies, comprise 30 separate data collections including 584 173 adults aged 18-89 years between 1995 and 2024. We observe a clear increase in symptoms of anxiety and depression among young adults, especially among young women. Among individuals in midlife, findings are mixed, with most studies indicating stability or only minor fluctuations. In contrast, the symptoms of older adults appears to have remained stable or even improved. ConclusionsResults show divergent trends in symptoms of anxiety and depression among adults. There has been an increase in symptoms among young adults, while symptoms remain stable or improved in old age. The results highlight the need for targeted preventive efforts among younger adults and for careful continued observation.