Anxiety and Depression among Pregnant Women in the Gaza Strip

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to examine the levels of anxiety and depression among pregnant women attending primary healthcare clinics in Gaza Strip. Method: The sample consisted of 400 pregnant women attending primary healthcare clinics in the Gaza Strip. They were interviewed using the sociodemographic scale, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Results: The study showed that 33.3% of the pregnant women showed moderate and 18.5% showed severe depression. Women living in refugee camps more often reported clinical cases of depression. 14.3% of these women showed moderate and 8.8% showed severe symptoms of anxiety. Depression and anxiety symptoms were closely associated with each other. The results showed that 6.3% of women experienced co-morbid depression and anxiety.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS
There is a need for early diagnosis of mental health problems in pregnant women attending primary health clinics through psychological screening. More programs are necessary to beincluded within the primary healthcare services to support psychosocially women with mental health problems. Also, the training of staff working in the clinics for early detection of mental health problems in such target group is necessary. Women with severe mental health problems should be subjected to a clear and effective transfer to more specialized psychiatric clinics for treatment.