Subjective Attributes of Depression, Part 2: The Contribution of Self-Perceived Disability to Depression Following Stroke

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the factors leading to depression following stroke and amputation according to the patients own self-report. Method: Twenty-seven stroke patients and partners, and 28 amputees and partners from a rehabilitation centre completed the Subjective Disability Depression Questionnaire (SDDQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, General Health Questionnaire-28, and Emotional and Social Dysfunction Questionnaire. Results: Stroke patients scored higher than amputee patients on all depression measures. Stepwise regression models using the SDDQ scales to predict a Combined Depression score were completed. For the stroke group, the model comprised perceived Cognitive Difficulties and Emotional Dysfunction (R²= .68). For the amputees, the Relationships scale was the only scale to enter the model (R² = .41). Conclusions: This study identified factors contributing to depression following stroke and amputation.