# Post-thyroidectomy Depression and Associated Factors in Saudi Arabia

## TL;DR

This study finds that many Saudi patients experience depression after thyroid surgery, with factors like education level and surgery duration playing a role.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific factors associated with post-thyroidectomy depression in Saudi Arabia.

## Key findings

- 80.92% of participants experienced depression after thyroidectomy, with mild and moderate cases being most common.
- Females and those who had total thyroidectomy showed higher rates of depression symptoms.
- Educational level and surgery time were significant predictors of post-surgery depression.

## Abstract

Background

Thyroidectomy is a common surgical procedure used to treat thyroid gland illnesses. The surgery has many outcomes, and one of them may show an association with depression. This study aims to assess the factors associated with depression after thyroidectomy in Saudi Arabia.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 414 Saudi participants. The target population included patients more than 18 years old and who had undergone thyroidectomy, whereas patients 18 years or younger were excluded. The data were collected between December 2023 and January 2024 using an electronic self-administered questionnaire that included demographics, clinical characteristics, and the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed randomly throughout social media, and patient consent was obtained. The descriptive and inferential analyses were performed using SPSS software version 27 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA).

Results

The study showed that of the 414 participants, 306 were females and 108 were males. Depression affected 335 (80.92%) participants and was mostly mild (120, 28.99%), followed by moderate (109, 26.33%), moderately severe (55, 13.29%), and severe (51, 12.32%). Depression symptoms were more common in females than males. The participants who underwent total thyroidectomy (217, 52.41%) were more than those who underwent partial thyroidectomy (197, 47.58%). Temporary complications were more prevalent in the participants exhibiting symptoms of depression. Both educational level and surgery time were significant factors.

Conclusions

The study revealed a significant prevalence of post-thyroidectomy depression. The associated factors in post-thyroidectomy depression included educational level, with more depression symptoms noted with high education. In addition, surgery time showed an increased risk of developing depression that still existed two years postoperatively.