How is resilience associated with anxiety and depression? Analysis of factor score interactions within a homogeneous sample

Aim: To explore the ways in which resilience is associated with anxiety and depression within a homogenous sample. 

Methods: 401 Australian university students completed the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale and the Zung Selfrating Anxiety and Depression Scales. Factor scores from the resilience scale were regressed against total anxiety and depession scores, combined anxiety-depression scores and the underlying factors of the combined anxiety-depression construct. 

Results: Self-confidence and optimism were most strongly negatively associated with anxiety and depression, followed by being decisive and solution-focussed and seeking challenges, having a strong purpose and being persistent, although different combinations of factors predicted anxiety than did depression. Spiritual beliefs did not appear to buffer against anxiety or depression in this sample. 

Conclusion: Enhancement of resilience, self-confidence and optimism appear to be major potential targets for therapy intervention with this age and occupation group.