The single-item Self-Rated Mental Health Question in women with gestational diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Objective

This study aims to explore whether the single-item Self-Rated Mental Health Question (SRMHQ) may be an indicator of the need for further mental health assessment and investigation in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Method

Women with GDM (n = 159) were recruited from outpatient clinics in the Australian Capital Territory prior to a GDM information session (mean gestational age = 26, SD = 4.5). Participants were aged 20–45 (mean = 33, SD = 4.2) and completed a single-item Self-Rated Health Question (SRHQ), single-item Self-Rated Mental Health Question (SRMHQ), Kessler 10-item Psychological Distress Scale (K-10), and Edinburgh Depression Scale (EDS), as well as demographic, psychiatric, and general health items. Multiple regression was used to explore whether there was an association between SRMHQ responses and K-10 or EDS total scores.

Results

Regression analysis revealed that the SRMHQ was a statistically significant predictor of K-10 and EDS total scores, while controlling for key potential confounders. When mental health was rated as “poor” compared to “excellent,” this was associated with an additional 12 and 9 points on K-10 and EDS total scores, respectively.

Conclusion

The SRMHQ may have a role as an indicator of the need for further mental health assessment and investigation in women with gestational diabetes mellitus.