Assess the Level of Depression and Anxiety am...

Assess the Level of Depression and Anxiety among Leprosy Patients In Nerkundram

Author Name : Meena.P, Kalaivani.P, Kannmani Priya.B

ABSTRACT

Background

Leprosy is a disease associated with great stigma due to the defects it can produce. It is caused by Mycobacterium leprae.The affected people have high psychosocial problems such as divorce, unemployment, and dislocation from their native place of residence. Psychiatric disorders are highly prevalent in people with Hansen’s disease and these preoccupy the healthcare resources. Comorbidity among these patients is observed in both clinical and epidemiological studies.

Objectives

1. To assess the level of anxiety among Leprosy patients.
2. To assess the level of depression among leprosy patients.
3. To compare the levels of Anxiety and depression.
4. To associate the level of anxiety and depression and selected demographic variables.

Methodology

A descriptive research design with convenience sampling technique was adopted to conduct a study among 30 Leprosy patients in Nerkundram. Data was gathered by using structured questionnaire. Confidentiality was maintained throughout the procedure. Collected data were analysed by using descriptive and inferential statistics.

 

Result

The study result identifies that among 30 leprosy patient the level of anxiety and depression on leprosy, majority 70% have moderate anxiety and 30% have moderate depression respectively. The study findings suggested that the demographic variable of duration of illness and comorbid diseases had shown statistically significant association with the level of anxiety among leprosy patients at p<0.005 level and in depression the demographic variable of occupation, monthly income and duration of illness had shown statistically significant association with the level of depression among leprosy patients at p<0.005 level.

Conclusion

Depressive and anxiety disorders are most prevalent in patients with leprosy. Therefore, the need for psychiatric evaluation among people with leprosy cannot be exaggerated as this will provide complete treatment method in the management of these patients.

Key words: Assess, anxiety, depression, and leprosy patients.