Psychological burden in mothers of children with drug allergy: a comparative study of anxiety, depression, and sleep quality

Pediatric drug allergies are increasingly recognized as a clinical concern, not only due to potential severe reactions but also their effects on family well-being. Mothers, as primary caregivers, may experience heightened psychological distress, yet little research has explored their mental health and sleep quality. To assess and compare anxiety, depression, and sleep quality among mothers of drug-allergic children and those of non-allergic children. This cross-sectional study included 200 mothers: 100 of drug-allergic children (Patient Group, PG) and 100 controls (Control Group, CG). Sociodemographic data and psychological assessments were collected using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Median BAI scores were significantly higher in PG than CG (8 vs. 7, p = 0.023), while BDI-II (p = 0.545) and PSQI (p = 0.367) did not differ. Low income, maternal atopy, and multiple drug allergies were linked to higher anxiety, depression, and poor sleep quality. Reaction type showed no effect. Mothers of drug-allergic children have significantly higher anxiety levels. Psychological burden increases with low income, maternal atopy, and multiple drug sensitivities, highlighting the need for routine psychological screening and psychosocial support in pediatric allergy care.