The severity of depressive symptoms in the mothers of paediatric oncology patients
Date
2022
Authors
Subrayadoo, Juanita
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Introduction
The task of caring for a child with cancer can be taxing and is often associated with varying degrees of depressive symptoms. This study aimed to explore the socio-demographic data and perceived levels of depression of mothers of paediatric oncology patients at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH), Soweto, Paediatric Outpatient Department.
Methods
This cross- sectional study was undertaken from 01/09/2020 until 28/02/2021. After consenting to participation, the mothers completed a survey that included socio-demographic data related to the mother and her child and the Hamilton depression scale.
Results
A total of 75 mothers of paediatric oncology patients at CHBAH participated in this study. Significantly, 50 (66.7%) of the women were considered depressed (>7 score) on the Hamilton depression scale scores. Significantly more women suffered from mild depression in the study sample (2=35.85, df=2, p< 0.001).
Younger and unmarried mothers were more likely to be depressed. However, the level of education, employment and income levels were not significantly different between the depressed and non-depressed mothers.
Conclusion Most of the mothers who participated in this study experienced mild depression. This study provides further evidence for the need of early psychiatric and social intervention in mothers and families of children with cancer.
Description
A research report submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Medicine in Psychiatry to the Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022