The single-item Self-Rated Mental Health Question in women with gestational diabetes mellitus.

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to explore whether the single-item Self-Rated Mental Health Question (SRMHQ) may be an indicator of the need for further mental health assessment and investigation in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Method: Women with GDM (n = 159) were recruited from outpatient clinics in the Australian Capital Territory prior to a GDM information session (mean gestational age = 26, SD = 4.5). Participants were aged 20-45 (mean = 33, SD = 4.2) and completed a single-item Self-Rated Health Question (SRHQ), single-item Self-Rated Mental Health Question (SRMHQ), Kessler 10-item Psychological Distress Scale (K-10), and Edinburgh Depression Scale (EDS), as well as demographic, psychiatric, and general health items. Multiple regression was used to explore whether there was an association between SRMHQ responses and K-10 or EDS total scores.

Results: Regression analysis revealed that the SRMHQ was a statistically significant predictor of K-10 and EDS total scores, while controlling for key potential confounders. When mental health was rated as "poor" compared to "excellent," this was associated with an additional 12 and 9 points on K-10 and EDS total scores, respectively.

Conclusion: The SRMHQ may have a role as an indicator of the need for further mental health assessment and investigation in women with gestational diabetes mellitus.