Long commutes linked to higher depression risk in South Korea

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — A new study has found that long commuting time is linked to depression, especially among men working over 52 hours per week without children.

The research, conducted by public health experts at Inha University in South Korea, analyzed 2017 data from over 23,000 working-age South Koreans. 

It found that those commuting over an hour each way were 16% more likely to experience symptoms of depression than people with under 30-minute commutes.

“With less time to spare, people could be short of time to relieve stress and combat physical fatigue through sleep, hobbies, and other activities,” the researchers explained.

“They also have less time to invest in healthy lifestyle habits, including exercise, which may contribute to depression.”

The average daily commute for participants was 47 minutes. According to the study, 25% reported depressive symptoms, as measured by the internationally recognized World Health Organization wellbeing index.

While the analysis controlled for work hours, income, and shift work, many personal depression risk factors could not be accounted for. The data also did not specify commute modes.

The association between long commutes and poorer mental health was strongest for unmarried men working over 52 hours weekly without children. For women, the link appeared greatest among low-income, shift workers, and mothers.

“This suggests that efforts to reduce commuting time are needed to help people balance work and family,” the researchers added.

The study also mentioned that increase in remote work and working from home may reduce depressive symptoms. Experts already predicted that the traditional five-day commute is dead, as remote work becomes the norm. A Harvard study even suggests that flexible work lowers heart risk.