Prevalence Of Depression & Anxiety In Post Myocardial Infarction Patients Attending A Tertiary Care Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with myocardial infarction (MI) representing its most severe manifestation. Although advances in acute cardiac care have improved survival, psychological sequelae such as depression and anxiety significantly impact quality of life and recovery. These psychiatric morbidities remain under-recognized in India, where the burden of ischemic heart disease is rapidly increasing. Hence, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of anxiety and depression among post-MI patients attending a tertiary care hospital and to correlate lifestyle and demographic factors with mental health outcomes.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in a hospital over a period of 18 months. Using convenience sampling, 117 individuals with a history of MI ≥6 months were gathered. Excluded were those having a history of psychiatric disease, concomitant endocrine problems, or recent MI. The Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), WHOQOL-BREF, and a semi-structured proforma were used to gather data.

Results: The study population's mean age was 58.6 years, and 74% of the participants were men. Anxiety was present in 38.5% of patients, but depression affected 56.4%. Significant predictors included lifestyle factors: alcohol use was linked to depression (χ² = 14.31, p < 0.001) and smoking to anxiety (χ² = 4.65, p = 0.03). In every WHOQOL-BREF domain, patients with psychiatric illness reported substantially poorer quality of life scores.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of anxiety and depression among post-MI patients, influenced by modifiable lifestyle factors. Routine screening, early psychiatric intervention, and integration of psychosocial support into cardiac rehabilitation programs are essential for holistic post-MI care in India.