Prevalence and associated factors of maternal depression among mothers of children with undernutrition at comprehensive specialized hospitals in northwest, Ethiopia, 2023: a cross‑sectional study

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Background Malnutrition remains one of the most significant child health problems in developing countries, accounting for an estimated 53% of child deaths per year. Depression is the leading cause of disease-related disability in women and adversely affects the health and well-being of mothers and their children. Studies have shown that maternal depression has an impact on infant growth and nutritional status. Evidence is scarce regarding the relationship between maternal depression and child malnutrition. Objectives To assess the prevalence and associated factors of maternal depression among mothers of children with undernutrition in Comprehensive Specialized hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia, 2023. Methods An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among a total of 465 mothers in the hospital. Data were collected by reviewing the patient chart and using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Outcome variables were assessed by using a patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9). Then it was entered into Epi-data version 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS version 25 computer software. Bi-variable and multi-variable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with maternal depression. The presence of an association was presented by an adjusted odds ratio considering a 95% confidence interval and a p-value < 0.05. Result The prevalence of maternal depression among mothers of children with undernutrition was found to be 36.4% (95% CI: 32–41%). In the multivariable analysis, Lack of maternal education (AOR = 2.872, 95% CI = 1.502–5.492), being unemployed (AOR = 2.581, 95% CI = 1.497–4.451), poor social support (AOR = 2.209, 95% = 1.314–3.713), perceived stigma (AOR = 2.243, 95% CI = 1.414–3.560), and stunting (AOR = 1.913, 95% CI = 1.129–3.241) were factors significantly associated with maternal depression. Conclusion The overall prevalence of maternal depression among mothers of children with undernutrition was high which was associated with a lack of education, being unemployed, having poor social support, high perceived stigma, and stunting physical growth in children with undernutrition. Therefore, to control the high magnitude of maternal depression among mothers of children with undernutration interventions like increasing the level of maternal education and employment status, strengthening social support, and reduction of stigma are required.