Fatalistic and Optimistic Coping Strategies Predict Depression in Arab Muslim Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease

BACKGROUND: Depression is one of the common psychological problems in patients on hemodialysis. We aimed to identify the predictors associated with depressive symptoms among patients on hemodialysis from a population under-represented in research and minoritized in countries like the United States.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study used a convenience sample of patients in Oman. Data were analyzed using linear multiple regression.

RESULTS: A total of 157 patients on hemodialysis participated in the study, with 40.5% reporting different levels of depressive symptoms. Higher stress levels (β = .643; p < .01) and higher perceived effectiveness of the fatalistic coping style (β = .144; p < .05) were significant predictors of depressive symptoms. Patients with a higher optimistic coping style (β = -.182; p < .01) had lower levels of depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSION: Arab Muslim hemodialysis patients have significant levels of depressive symptoms. Identifying predictors of depressive symptoms may help identify those at risk and provide culturally appropriate interventions.