Prevalence and risk factors of anxiety and depression among patients with chronic diseases, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

A connection was found between chronic illnesses and psychological disorders leading to negative impact on health-related quality of life. This study assessed prevalence of anxiety and depression among chronic diseases patients in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was done on chronic diseases patients for ≥3 years using an online questionnaire. Data about patients’ demographics, and medical information Arabic version of the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) was used to assess the psychological well-being. Of participants, 59.4% had 41-60 years, 74.3% were males and 89.7% were married. The most common chronic diseases were hypertension (56.2%) and diabetes (47.6%). Of patients, 22.2% had depression and 27% had anxiety. Depression was significantly higher among participants aged 41-60 years, males, married, with secondary education or more, with 10 001-20 000 SR monthly income, having 4 chronic diseases, longer disease duration and sedentary lifestyle. Anxiety was significantly higher among participants aged 41-60 years, separated, with secondary education or more, employed, having 10 001-20 000 SR monthly income, overweight, and those with longer disease duration.  A significant positive correlation was found between depression and anxiety scores and the number of chronic diseases. Mental health should be recognized as a core component of chronic disease management.