Correlation Between Anxiety, Depression, and Self-Perceived Hoarseness: A Systematic Review of the Literature

J Voice. 2025 Jul 22:S0892-1997(25)00223-1. doi: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2025.06.007. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This review aims to evaluate the correlation between anxiety, depression, and self-perceived hoarseness in patients with dysphonia.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review.

METHODS: A systematic search of Medline, PubMed, and Cochrane databases was performed. Studies focusing on the relationship between anxiety, depression, and self-reported voice measures in dysphonic patients were included, while duplicates, incomplete data, animal studies, and reviews were excluded, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses guidelines.

RESULTS: Of the 416 articles identified, 24 papers were reviewed. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria and were included. Most studies used the Voice Handicap Index (VHI), VHI-10, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale as assessment tools. The studies demonstrated a positive correlation of varying degrees between anxiety, depression, and self-perceived hoarseness, except for patients with spasmodic dysphonia in one study.

CONCLUSION: This review highlights significant positive correlation between anxiety, depression, and self-perceived hoarseness, emphasizing the importance of early identification and treatment of mental health issues to improve patient outcomes.

PMID:40701891 | DOI:10.1016/j.jvoice.2025.06.007