Are canopy cover and walkability associated with depression in low income adults?

Depression is highly prevalent among low-income populations, yet the influence of neighborhood environmental factors remains unclear. This study examined associations between canopy cover, walkability, and depressive symptoms among 4,121 low-income adults in the Portland Metropolitan Area (2008–2010). Depression was assessed using the PHQ-2, and neighborhood exposures were calculated within 0.25 miles of participants’ homes using geocoded data and satellite imagery. Gender-stratified logistic regression models controlled for individual and neighborhood covariates. Canopy cover showed no association with depression in men or women. Walkability was not associated with depression in women, but men in moderately high walkability areas had slightly elevated odds of depression. Findings suggest that canopy cover does not protect against depression, and walkability may have complex, gender-specific effects.