Published Paper Details:

Abstract: The period before parturition is honoured as a precarious occasion, posing raised troubles for the emergence of psychiatric conditions, whether pre-existing or recently evolved. On a global scale, current mental health conditions similar to depression and anxiety significantly contribute to maternal morbidity and mortality, representing a substantial challenge. This burden is particularly pronounced in low- and middle-income nations. Objectives: 1. To assess the level of anxiety and depression among antenatal mothers. 2. To assess the correlation between anxiety and depression among antenatal mothers. 3. To find the association between the level of anxiety and depression with selected demographic variables among antenatal mothers. Methodology: A quantitative research approach and descriptive research design was used. 100 antenatal mothers from Antenatal OPD, Thiruvallur Government Medical College and Hospital, were selected as a study sample by using a non-probability purposive sampling technique. The investigator collected data using the self-administered Perinatal Anxiety Screening Scale (PASS) and Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) to assess anxiety and depression among antenatal mothers. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The study results showed that the majority 73(73%) had mild to moderate anxiety, 17(17%) had asymptomatic, and 10(10%) had severe anxiety. While 35(35%) had likely not had depression,25(25%) had probable depression and 10(10%) had a fairly high possibility of depression. While positive correlation (r=0.708) between anxiety and depression. Conclusion: The findings of the study indicated that most mothers experienced anxiety and depression during pregnancy and also reveal a positive correlation between anxiety and depression. The study finding highlights the importance for healthcare professionals and policymakers to screen for mental health issues, implement targeted interventions, and enhance antenatal care services.