A Systematic Review of Quantitative Studies of Depression and Loneliness in Black Women with Hypertension in the United States.

Lashawn Hutto; Michelle Odlum; Laurie Theeke

doi:10.1007/s40615-025-02541-3

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A Systematic Review of Quantitative Studies of Depression and Loneliness in Black Women with Hypertension in the United States.

Lashawn Hutto·Michelle Odlum·Laurie Theeke

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INTRODUCTION: Hypertension disproportionately affects Black women with subsequent complications that can extend beyond physical health. Notably, there is a significant relationship between hypertension, depression, and loneliness, with hypertensive Black women more likely to exhibit symptoms of depression. Since loneliness and social isolation are predictors of depression, recognizing and addressing these interconnected health concerns could improve patient outcomes and quality of life. This systematic review presents a synthesis of findings on depression screening practices, depression symptoms, and loneliness in quantitative studies of Black women with hypertension in the United States. METHODS: Using the EbscoHost platform, a comprehensive literature search for studies measuring depression and loneliness in Black women with hypertension was conducted. The following databases were selected: Medline Complete, CINAHL Complete, APA PsychArticles, and PsychINFO. RESULTS: Twenty-three articles were included; 16 focused on depression, and these studies highlighted a significant burden of depression in this demographic compared to their counterparts. Five studies reported loneliness and its relation to depression and hypertension. Loneliness and social isolation, as independent risk factors, exacerbated symptoms of depression and contributed to the onset and progression of hypertension. Two prior reviews corroborated these findings. Studies have emphasized the role of trust in clinical interactions and the importance of appropriate therapeutic interventions. DISCUSSION: Black women with hypertension are at a heightened risk for symptoms of depression, compounded by feelings of loneliness. Loneliness and depression are linked to physiological stress, contributing to hypertension. These problems are underrecognized and undertreated across populations, and this lack of recognition and treatment contributes to health inequity.

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Humans Hypertension Female United States Depression Black or African American Loneliness Social Isolation Risk Factors Black women Social isolation Journal Article Systematic Review Review

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Lashawn Hutto, Michelle Odlum, Laurie Theeke. 2025-07-14. A Systematic Review of Quantitative Studies of Depression and Loneliness in Black Women with Hypertension in the United States.. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40615-025-02541-3

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Depression subject Female subject Humans subject Hypertension subject Journal Article subject Journal Article; Systematic Review; Review resource Systematic reviews study

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