Assessment of Anxiety and Depression among Inpatients at a Healthcare Facility in Aligarh: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study

Introduction: Depression is a multifaceted medical condition that significantly impacts an individual’s ability to navigate daily life. Recognised as one of the most prevalent mental health disorders, depression manifests through persistent feelings of inadequacy, hopelessness, negativity, anhedonia (loss of pleasure), and profound sadness. These symptoms often lead to severe disruption in an individual’s life, and in extreme cases, may result in suicide attempts or fatalities. Diagnosis hinges on assessing the presence and intensity of symptoms over time. The origins of psychiatric understanding trace back to Hippocrates (460–377 B.C.), considered the father of medicine, who laid the foundational insights into mental disorders. Additionally, the Unani system of medicine offers a unique perspective, highlighting mizaj (temperament) as a key risk factor influencing various disorders, including depression, historically referred to as Malenkholiya. Symptoms of depression, according to DSM-5 classification, include changes in mood, persistent sadness, disrupted sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, feelings of guilt or low self-esteem, fluctuations in appetite, and thoughts of suicide. Methodology: To find out the level of anxiety and depression, a hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted between October–December 2024. Patients were selected through stratified systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured proforma and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), a validated screening tool for hospital settings. Results: The result shows that 35% had normal mood levels, 55% showed borderline depression, and 10% had depression. 45% were normal on the Anxiety scale, while 40% were borderline, and 15% were confirmed with Anxiety. Females (66.67%) experienced anxiety more than males (33.33%). Discussion: This study highlights the high prevalence of anxiety and depression among hospitalised patients, influenced by various biological, psychological, social, and economic factors. Women exhibited higher anxiety levels, and a significant proportion of patients showed borderline or clinical symptoms, emphasising the need for routine psychological assessments. A holistic approach integrating modern medicine and traditional perspectives like Unani medicine can enhance patient well-being and recovery outcomes.