Prevalence of depressive and generalized anxiety features among patients with chronic care conditions

Abstract

BACKGROUND : Mental illness remains a major public health concern globally. Patients with chronic conditions are vulnerable. OBJECTIVES : The study determined the proportion and associated factors of depression and anxiety among patients with chronic conditions, as it explores the implications for integrated mental healthcare delivery, by determining the prevalence of depressive and generalized anxiety features among patients receiving chronic care. Exploring how the coexistence of chronic physical illness and psychological distress may inform strategies for integrated, patient-centred care within primary healthcare settings. METHODS : Cross-sectional study of adult patients receiving chronic care. A PHQ-9 score of ≥10 indicated positive screening for depression and a GAD-7 score of ≥10 indicated anxiety. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was applied. RESULTS : Out of 286 patients, 30.4%(n = 87) were treated for hypertension and 26.9%(n = 77) for HIV. Depression was positively screened in 60.5%(n = 173) and anxiety in 66.1%(n = 189) patients. The odds of screening positive for depression were higher among patients with diabetes (aOR 1.92, 95%CI: 1.0-3.7), TB(aOR 3.66, 95%CI: 1.4-9.5). Positive screening for anxiety was higher among female residents. CONCLUSION : High rates of undiagnosed depression and anxiety are present in patients with chronic care conditions.