Predictors of anxiety among women of reproductive age in Nepal: a comprehensive nationwide analysis

Purpose and objective: Anxiety poses a significant challenge for women of reproductive age globally, often leading to other mental health issues. However, research on anxiety prevalence among this demographic, particularly in Nepal, remains scarce. This study aims to fill this gap by identifying demographic, biological, and behavioral predictors of anxiety among reproductive-aged women in Nepal.

Method: Using data from the nationally representative Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2022, this study employed the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale to assess anxiety prevalence. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including one-way ANOVA and stepwise multiple regression, were utilized for identifying the potential predictors of anxiety.

Result: This study found that 22.2% of reproductive-aged women in Nepal experience moderate to severe anxiety. The stepwise multiple regression revealed seven most influential factors, with depression (mild, moderate, severe) being the most influential predictor of anxiety, explaining 51.8% of the variance (R square change = 0.518; Sig. =<0.001). Self-reported health status (R square change = 0.010; Sig.=<0.001), experienced emotional violence (R square change = 0.007; Sig.=<0.001), and pregnancy termination (R square change = 0.002; Sig.=0.001) accounted for 1.0%, 0.7%, and 0.2% of the variance in anxiety, respectively. Other significant predictors of anxiety included husband's alcohol consumption, genital discharge, and household wealth status.

Conclusion: Anxiety is substantially prevalent among reproductive-aged women in Nepal, with sociodemographic factors playing a crucial role. Further research is needed to develop targeted socioeconomic, and behavioral interventions aimed at addressing anxiety and its broader impact on daily life, thereby ensuring the mental well-being of women of reproductive age.