Evaluation of the Depression, Anxiety Levels and Attitudes of Mothers of Children with Celiac Disease

Abstract

Objective: In celiac disease, a gluten-free diet is required for lifelong. Difficulties experienced by children with celiac disease can also negatively affect caregivers. The aim of this study is to evaluate the anxiety and depression of mothers having a child with celiac disease, and evaluate mothers’ attitude towards their children. Method: Thirty-six children with celiac disease, their mothers, and 36 healthy controls were included in the study. The Parent Attitude Research Instrument, State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Beck Depression Inventory were completed by all mothers. Results: The mothers of children with celiac disease had significantly higher scores in depression and state-trait anxiety than the mothers of the healthy children. Mothers of children with celiac disease had significantly higher scores in the attitude of overparenting, authoritarian attitude and attitude of hostility and rejection than the mothers of healthy children. Conclusion: This study revealed that having a child with celiac disease might have negative effects on mothers and their attitudes towards their children. Because of psychopathologic risks appropriate psychologic support should be provided for mothers.