Study of Anxiety and Depression in Caregivers of Intellectually Disabled Children

Background: Intellectual disability is a permanent condition unlike many other diseases. It is a highly disabling condition. Study once, this is an attempt to study negative impact on caregivers to help and manage this problem in the best possible way. Aims & Objective: To find prevalence, influence of various socio-demographic variables and its clinical correlation with anxiety and depression in caregivers of intellectually disabled children. Material & Methodology: The study was conducted at the Outpatient Department (OPD) Of Psychiatry, G.G. Govt. Hospital, Jamnagar, Gujarat. The caregivers who came with their intellectually disabled child for certification were recruited. Using specially designed semi-structured socio-demographic and clinical data sheet, information was collected about intellectually disabled children and their caregivers. Parents fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria consenting for the study were selected and Zung's self rating anxiety and depression scale was used. Results: Prevalence of anxiety was 57% and depression was 63%. Earning status and Type of family has been significantly associated with high anxiety score and other socio-demographic variables i.e. Gender, Religion, Education and marital status were not associated with high anxiety score among caregivers. Out of all socio-demographic variables only age of caregiver was significantly associated with high depression score. Conclusion: Study shows high anxiety score and depression score among caregivers of intellectually disabled children.