Deployment-related traumatic stressors and subclinical depression among peacekeeping veterans

Abstract Subclinical depression among peacekeeping veterans remains understudied despite its prevalence and potential to progress to major depression. This study examined associations between deployment-related traumatic stressors and subclinical depressive symptoms in 2,258 Finnish peacekeeping veterans. Subclinical depression was measured using the Depression Scale (DEPS) and traumatic stressor exposure via a 16-item questionnaire. Frequent traumatic stressor exposure was associated with an increased risk of subclinical depression, with 5 out of 16 stressors showing significant associations.