UNDERSTANDING POST-STROKE DEPRESSION AMONG PATIENTS VISITING OPD AT IGMC AND AIMSS SHIMLA

Dr. Mayank*, Dr. Kanika Khamb and Dr. Kriti Sahore

ABSTRACT

Background: Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a common neuropsychiatric complication that significantly hampers recovery, reduces quality of life, and increases mortality among stroke survivors. Data regarding the prevalence of PSD in North Indian hill states like Himachal Pradesh is scarce. Objective: To determine the prevalence of depression among stroke patients attending the outpatient department (OPD) at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) and Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialties (AIMSS) Shimla and to study associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 180 stroke patients attending Medicine and Neurology OPDs at IGMC and AIMSS Shimla respectively over six months. Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Data on socio-demographic and clinical variables were collected. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for PSD. Results: The prevalence of depression among stroke patients was found to be 58.3%. Moderate to severe depression was seen in 32.7% of the patients. Factors significantly associated with depression included female gender (p=0.02), higher stroke severity (p=0.001), lower socioeconomic status (p=0.01), and presence of cognitive impairment (p=0.003). Conclusion: Depression was highly prevalent among stroke survivors attending OPD at IGMC Shimla. Early identification and management of PSD are essential for improving functional outcomes and quality of life in stroke patients.

Keywords: Depression, stroke, ischemic, hemorrhagic, IGMC, AIMSS.