The Effect of Uncertainty on Depression in Young and Middle-aged Stroke Patients: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the mediating effect of resilience in the relationship between uncertainty and depression among young and middle-aged stroke patients. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research design was used. The study was conducted in 207 patients aged 20 to 65 years who were diagnosed with stroke, lived in the community, and joined an online self-help group cafe. Data were collected from May 10 to August 14, 2024, using a structured questionnaire including patient characteristics, depression, uncertainty, and resilience. Data were analyzed by the SPSS/WIN 27.0 program for descriptive statistics, using independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and model 4 of PROCESS macro. Results: The mean scores for depression, uncertainty, and resilience were 19.57±15.18, 57.57±23.22, and 63.23±25.90, respectively. Resilience had a mediating effect in the relationship between uncertainty and depression. Conclusion: This study confirmed the mediating effect of resilience in the relationship between uncertainty and depression in young and middle-aged stroke patients, suggesting the need for a program to reduce and manage depression in young and middle-aged stroke patients by improving resilience.