This study aimed to evaluate the psychological wellbeing and symptoms of anxiety and depression, along with associated factors, of carers of physically disabled children in the Kilimanjaro region.
A cross-sectional survey was conducted from November 2020 to June 2021 in the Kilimanjaro region, involving 212 carers. The Swahili versions of the WHO-5 Wellbeing Index and Hopkins Symptoms Checklist-25 were used to assess psychological well-being and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics V.28. Multivariable linear and binary logistic regression were used to determine the associations.
More than four fifths (81%) of the carers were parents, and most of these parents were mothers (92%). Of the 212 carers, 42% had symptoms of anxiety, and 38% symptoms of depression. As a result of multivariable regression analysis, extended-family support was found to be associated with psychological wellbeing (aβ = 8.30 [1.94, 14.66]) and symptoms of anxiety (aOR = 0.44 [0.25, 0.80]) and depression (aOR = 0.51 [0.28, 0.95]). A higher estimated monthly income was associated with better psychological wellbeing (≥ $65USD, aβ = 16.6 [5.95, 27.21]; $22–64USD, aβ = 8.5 [0.59, 16.41]) than a lower one (≤ $21USD), and lower odds of symptoms of depression (≥ $65USD, aOR = 0.19 [0.05, 0.70]; $22–64USD, aOR = 0.41 [0.19, 0.88]). Access to rehabilitation for the child was associated with improved psychological wellbeing (aβ = 11.71 [3.15, 20.26]) and decreased likelihood of symptoms of anxiety (aOR = 0.30 [0.14, 0.67]).
Carers of physically disabled children in Tanzania have poor psychological wellbeing, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Support from extended family networks is crucial in promoting good psychological well-being. The government in Tanzania should improve rehabilitation services, especially in disadvantaged rural areas, and integrate mental-health screening for carers in both rehabilitation programmes and primary healthcare.
Documenting the extent of poor psychological well-being and symptoms of anxiety and depression can highlight the need for essential public health interventions in the Tanzanian context. Research in this area is crucial to enacting revision of actions and policies relating to mental health. The findings of this study will contribute to the body of knowledge on psychological wellbeing, particularly symptoms of anxiety and depression, among carers of children and adolescents with physical disabilities from LIC settings. Additionally, documenting the mental health of this population is crucial for informing Sustainable Development Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote wellbeing for all ages.
Carers
Tanzania
