Prevalence Of Stress, Anxiety and Depression in Mother of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Background: Mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression due to the unique challenges associated with caregiving. Managing a child's behavioral, social, and developmental difficulties can lead to emotional strain, impacting their overall well-being. Understanding the prevalence of these mental health issues is essential for developing effective support systems.

Study Design: A Cross-sectional study.

Aim: To determine the prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder.

Objectives:

• To determine the prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder.


• To examine the relationship between the severity of autism spectrum disorder symptoms and the prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression in mothers.


• To assess how the age of children with autism spectrum disorder affects the levels of stress, anxiety, and depression in their mothers.

Participants: 98 mothers of children aged 3-5 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder were included as per inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Methods: Children were selected based on age (3-5 years) and severity of autism spectrum disorder, diagnosed using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). The mothers were assessed using the DASS-42 scale, and the data was analyzed statistically.

Results: A total of 98 mothers participated in the study. The mean autism severity was 35.72 (SD=3.45), and the mean scores for depression, anxiety, and stress were 13.83 (SD=5.34), 15.82 (SD=4.73), and 23.79 (SD=5.62), respectively. A strong positive correlation was found between autism severity and maternal depression (r=0.720, p<0.01), anxiety (r=0.773, p<0.01), and stress (r=0.695, p<0.01). No significant correlation was found between the child's age and maternal depression (r=0.099, p=0.332), anxiety (r=0.109, p=0.285), or stress (r=-0.100, p=0.327).

Conclusion: This study found that higher autism severity is associated with increased maternal depression, anxiety, and stress levels. However, no significant relationship was found between the child's age and maternal psychological distress.