Peer-reviewed open access journal Vol. 15 • Issue 1

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Journal of Behavioral Health and Psychology

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Volume 15

Issue 1 • 2026-02

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Prevalence and correlates of generalized anxiety disorder and depression among caregivers of children and adolescents with seizure disorders

Emmanuel Olatunde Babalola, Timothy Olaolu Adebowale, Peter Onifade, Adegoke Oloruntoba Adelufosi

Journal of Behavioral Health and Psychology 0201 Vol. 3 Issue 2 Pages 108-390
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Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and correlates of anxiety and depression among caregivers of children with seizure disorders. Methods: Two hundred and two caregivers of children with seizure disorders were administered socio-demographic questionnaires at the Child and Adolescent Outpatient Clinic between October 2011 and March 2012. The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM – IV axis 1 Diagnosis (SCID) was used for diagnosis of Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Major Depression. Results: One hundred and forty six (72%) of the carers were females, with mothers of patients accounting for 66% of respondents. The prevalence of generalized anxiety among the respondents was 12%, while that of major depressive disorder was 50.5%. The socio-demographic characteristics of carers associated with psychiatric morbidity included older age range (χ2=18.67, p=0.001), being employed (χ2=10.41, p=0.015), longer duration of care (χ2=18.07, p=0.001) and being patients’ mother (χ2=10.17, p=0.032). Conclusion: Depression and anxiety are common among caregivers of children with seizure disorders. Caregivers’ socio-demographic characteristics and patients’ clinical variables are associated with prevalence of anxiety and depression. These findings suggest the need to adopt a holistic approach to the detection of these disorders and developing adequate intervention for these caregivers.