MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL DISORDERS IN PATIENTS WITH TUBERCULOSIS: PREVALENCE, CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS, AND OUTPATIENT MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic infectious disease associated not only with physical health complications but also with significant mental and emotional disorders. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and risk factors for anxiety, depression, and other emotional disturbances in patients with tuberculosis attending outpatient clinics. A total of 150 TB patients were assessed using validated psychological scales, including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). The results revealed that 78 patients (52%) exhibited moderate to severe emotional disturbances, with anxiety present in 44% and depression in 37% of patients. Patients with multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and prolonged treatment durations had significantly higher rates of mental-emotional disorders (p < 0.01). Early detection, psychological counseling, and supportive outpatient care led to improved emotional well-being and adherence to TB treatment over a 3-month follow-up. These findings highlight the need for routine mental health screening and integrated psychosocial care in TB management to improve overall clinical outcomes.