Prevalence of depression and anxiety and related influencing factors in the Chinese population with noncommunicable chronic diseases: A network perspective.

Abstract

Background: The prevalence and severity of noncommunicable chronic diseases (NCDs) among Chinese residents have been increasing with mental health emerging as a critical challenge in disease management.

Aim: To examine the interactions between depression, anxiety symptoms, and related factors, and to identify key factors in the Chinese population with NCDs.

Methods: Data from the Psychology and Behavior Investigation of Chinese Residents were used in a cross-sectional survey of 6182 individuals with NCDs. This study measured depression and anxiety symptoms as well as their influencing factors including social environments, individual behaviors and lifestyles, and subjective indicators. A network analysis approach was used for data assessment.

Results: Network analysis demonstrated that several central factors (media exposure, family health, problematic internet use, suboptimal health status, intimate relationship violence, tired or little energy, and nervousness/anxious/on edge) and bridge factors (media exposure, problematic internet use, intimate partner violence, health literacy, and suboptimal health status) that significantly influenced the co-occurrence and interconnectedness of depression and anxiety symptoms. Additionally, gender, ethnicity, residency, and living status did not significantly influence the overall network strength.

Conclusion: Depression and anxiety are prevalent among the Chinese population with NCDs. Effective interventions should focus on managing key symptoms, promoting correct media use for health information, and fostering healthier family relationships.