SummaryAnxiety and depressive disorders pose a significant health burden on the German population. However, the accuracy of prevalence estimates can be improved by using more sensitive and specific screening tools, accounting for transient states, and considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. To address these issues, we aim to employ a methodological focus in our proposed research. Specifically, we will evaluate the accuracy of diagnostic tools used to estimate psychiatric disorder prevalence. Using the illness-death model, we will project the prevalence of these disorders, taking into account changes in symptoms before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, and further projecting their prevalence into the future. Finally, we will assess social disparities in the course of anxiety and depression to gain a more profound understanding of their impact on different populations. By adopting this methodological approach, we aim to provide more accurate estimates of the prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders, which can inform public health policies and interventions.

Keywords COVID-19 anxiety corrected-summary-measures depression diagnostic-accuracy epidemiology mental-health multistate-model

InstitutionsCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, University of Münster, Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institut für Epidemiologie der Universität Münster