Exploring the Hidden Burden: Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression in Patients Undergoing Head and Neck Surgery

Background: Head and neck surgeries, conducted for various conditions including cancers, trauma, and congenital anomalies, can lead to significant physical and psychological challenges. Depression and anxiety are commonly reported in patients undergoing such surgeries, affecting their quality of life and recovery outcomes. While extensive research has focused on cancer patients, limited data is available on the prevalence of psychiatric disorders across a broader spectrum of patients undergoing head and neck surgeries. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of depression and anxiety in patients undergoing head and neck surgery and to provide insights into improving mental health management in this population. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted between June 2023 and June 2024 at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery of Acharya Shri Chander College of Medical Sciences and Hospital. A total of 100 patients undergoing head and neck surgery were evaluated at three time points: preoperatively and at three and six months postoperatively. Depression and anxiety were diagnosed using ICD-10 criteria, while their severity was measured using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS). Exclusion criteria included prior psychiatric illness and refusal to participate. Results: Preliminary data showed that 34% of patients exhibited moderate to severe depression, while 30% had moderate to severe anxiety. Anxiety levels were observed to peak preoperatively, while depression symptoms increased at the six-month follow-up. Factors such as age, type of surgery, and social support significantly influenced the prevalence of psychiatric conditions. Conclusion: This study highlights the substantial psychological burden faced by patients undergoing head and neck surgery. The results emphasize the need for early psychiatric evaluation and intervention to improve both mental health and overall surgical outcomes.