Global prevalence of depression in caregivers of children with autism: A systematic review and meta-analysis

• Published in: Journal of pediatric nursing 2024-12
• Main Authors: Lam, Xin Rong, Cheng, Ling Jie, Leo, Celest Su Yi, Toh, Zheng An, He, Hong-Gu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Autism Spectrum Disorder; Caregivers; Depression; Prevalence; Systematic review
• ISSN: 0882-5963; 1532-8449; 1532-8449
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2024.11.020

Depression is reported as the most common disorder among caregivers, especially for caregivers of children with autism. However, limited systematic reviews have investigated the prevalence of depressive symptoms among these caregivers. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to synthesize the prevalence of global depressive symptoms among caregivers of children with autism and identify associated factors. Articles were limited to English language and reported on the prevalence of depressive symptoms among formal or informal caregivers, aged 18 or older, of children with ASD, with no publication year restrictions. A total of 40 included studies involving 13,853 caregivers of children with autism were included. Meta-analysis of 40 included studies involving 13,853 caregivers of children with autism showed a pooled prevalence estimate of 45 % (95 % CI: 39.0–51.0). Depressive symptoms were most prevalent in European studies, with a rate of 54 % (N: 980), closely followed by the Eastern Mediterranean region at 53 % (N:1071). The South-East Asia and Western Pacific region exhibited a prevalence of 40 % (N: 5719), while the Americas reported a rate of 38 % (N: 6083). This review presents compelling evidence of a high global prevalence rate of 45 % for depressive symptoms among caregivers of children with ASD. To enhance nursing support for caregivers of children with ASD, specific interventions are needed. Nurses should integrate mental health screenings into regular check-ups, link caregivers to community resources, and receive specialized training. Promoting respite care and collaborating with stakeholders can further address caregiver stress and mental health stigma. •Caregivers of children with ASD face a staggering 45 % prevalence of depression.•Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean had the highest rates, at 54 % and 53 %, respectively.•South-East Asia and the Western Pacific region showed a prevalence of 40 %.•America reported a 38 % prevalence of depression.