A comparative study of family caregiver burden in schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder
Abstract
Background: Caregiving for individuals with mental illness is one of the most difficult jobs among family members. The social and financial costs associated with mental illnesses are considerable for those who suffer from them, their families, and their communities. Aim: This study aimed to assess and compare the levels of burden experienced by family caregivers of individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder. Methodology: A cross-sectional hospital-based descriptive research design was used in the study. The convenience sampling method was adopted to select 90 caregivers of severe psychiatric disorders, 45 individuals with Schizophrenia (Group-1) and 45 Bipolar Affective Disorders (Group-2). Participants were evaluated using a self-prepared socio-demographic datasheet and a family burden interview schedule (FBIS). Results: The mean age of the participants was in group-1 41.02 ± 11.63 years and group-2 35.97 ± 12.39 years. Results show that there was a significant difference level (p<.001) in various domains of FBIS among participants of both groups. Conclusion: Family caregivers take on several responsibilities when it comes to caring for people with mental illnesses when there is a lack of proper mental health infrastructure available.
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