PREVALENCE OF DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY AMONG PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY

Abstract

Background: Parents of children with cerebral palsy (CP) encounter enduring physical, emotional, and financial challenges that can profoundly affect their mental well-being. These caregiving demands often increase the risk of depression and anxiety, yet there remains limited evidence regarding their prevalence within local populations. Understanding these psychological impacts is essential for developing integrated, family-centered rehabilitation strategies that address both the child’s and the caregiver’s needs.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and anxiety among parents of children diagnosed with cerebral palsy and to examine their association with demographic and caregiving-related variables.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2023 to April 2024 at the National Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine (NIRM), Islamabad. A total of 145 parents (64 fathers and 81 mothers) of children aged 5–14 years with cerebral palsy were recruited using non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected through a self-developed demographic questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23, applying descriptive and inferential tests, including chi-square, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.

Results: Out of 145 participants, 72 (49.7%) exhibited depressive symptoms, while 43 (29.7%) demonstrated moderate to severe anxiety. Depression was more prevalent among mothers (63%) than fathers (32.8%). Similarly, anxiety levels were significantly higher in mothers, with 59.3% classified as low anxiety, 29.6% as moderate, and 11.1% as severe, compared to fathers (84.4% low, 10.9% moderate, and 4.7% severe). Gender showed a statistically significant association with both depression (p = 0.002) and anxiety (p = 0.004), while child age did not exhibit a significant relationship.

Conclusion: The study revealed a substantial psychological burden among parents of children with cerebral palsy, particularly among mothers, emphasizing the necessity for mental health screening and targeted interventions within rehabilitation programs. Integrating psychological support into pediatric care may improve caregiver well-being and enhance the overall quality of life for families affected by cerebral palsy.