Comparison of anxiety and depression levels of caregivers of hospitalized patients for malignant and non-malignant causes

This cross-sectional study compared anxiety and depression levels among caregivers of malignant and non-malignant inpatients. A total of 204 caregivers at Kocaeli City Hospital were evaluated using a sociodemographic form and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Most participants were female (69.1%) and first-degree relatives (86.3%). Understanding caregiver mental health is essential, as it influences patient outcomes, especially in longterm care. Caregivers of cancer patients reported significantly higher anxiety and depression associated with hospitalization frequency (p=0.006), recent stay duration (p<0.001), and total hospitalization length (p<0.001). Female caregivers had higher anxiety scores in both groups (p=0.010). Among non-malignant caregivers, anxiety varied by relationship to the patient, while education influenced both anxiety (p=0.002) and depression (p=0.001). No such associations were observed in cancer caregivers. Findings suggest that female caregivers and those supporting cancer patients are at increased psychological risk, underscoring the need for targeted support interventions.