Effect of Anxiety on Depression in Pregnant Women: The Mediating Role of Stress and Moderating Role of Social Support

Anxiety not only directly served as a risk factor for depression but also indirectly contributed to depression through perceived stress. Social support moderated both the initial (anxiety → perceived stress) and direct (anxiety → depression) paths of this mediation. Early screening and targeted interventions for anxiety-particularly among pregnant women experiencing high perceived stress and low social support-may help reduce the risk of depression.