Anxiety levels and its demographic predictors among first time mothers: A survey report from Maharashtra

Abstract

Background: First-time mothers often experience heightened anxiety about transition to motherhood. Factors like lack of social support, socioeconomic status, and partner involvement, previous mental health issues, unplanned pregnancy, unwanted baby, and stress can increase anxiety. Understanding anxiety levels and their predictors among this population is crucial for supporting the mental health of mothers and the well-being of families. Objectives: a) to assess the levels of anxiety among the first time mothers and b) to find out the demographic predictors of anxiety among first time mothers. Material: Hamiltons Anxiety scale Sample & Sample Size: 200 first time mothers Research Design: Face to Face Survey Results: Moderate to severe anxiety is found among 82% first time mothers. Strong statistically significant (p<0.05) positive association of anxiety was found with age (less than 22 years and > 30 years), level of education (low levels of education) and nuclear status of the family. Conclusion: First time mothers face moderate to severe levels of anxiety due to their low levels of education, early age or elderly primi status and lack of experienced family support in nuclear families.