Comorbid Anxiety and Depression Among Patients Attending the General Outpatient Clinic of a Nigerian Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Background: Anxiety and depression are common mental disorders that are not only on the increase, but their comorbidity accounts for greater severity, chronicity, functional limitations and significant impairment of physical health.

Objective: The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of comorbid anxiety and depression (CAD) among patients attending the General Outpatient Clinic, which could help increase the index of suspicion of these disorders and subsequently improve overall patient care.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out at the General Outpatient Clinic of Bowen University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, between August and November 2021. Using a systematic sampling technique, 222 respondents were recruited. CAD was evaluated using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale and Patient Health Questionnaire. SPSS version 26 was used for data analysis. Frequency and percentages were calculated, and Chi-square was used to test for significant association with a p-value set at <0.05.

Results: CAD was found among 27.5% of the study participants. Age group above 75 years, male gender, married participants, skilled workers, participants having monthly income between ₦51,000 - ₦100,000 (equivalent to USD100-200) and those with diabetes had the highest prevalence of CAD. Male gender had a statistically significant association with CAD.

Conclusion: It is, therefore, imperative to increase awareness of CAD with a focus on the male gender to commence treatment promptly when identified.