Assessment of Caregiver Burden among Caregivers of Mentally Ill Patients

Background: Caregiving psychiatric patients is a challenging task and has a great impact on the family caregiver’s wellbeing. The current study to demonstrate the burden posed on them& variables associated with burden of caregiving. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited 45 caregivers of psychiatric patients visiting the Department of Psychiatry at Sree Balaji Medical College& Hospital, Chrompet. Information was gathered from patients using a semi-structured proforma. Burden was assessed using Zarit caregiver burden scale. Patient’s illness severity& functional status were assessed using Global Assessment of Functioning and Clinical Global Impression scale respectively. Results: Female caregivers experienced more caregiving burden. Severe the mental illness was associated positively with more severe caregiver burden. Lower the functioning of the individual, higher the caregiving burden. Caregiver burden score was high in caregivers whose relatives were on irregular treatment. Caregivers encountering more than 6 relapses in their relatives experience more burden. Conclusion: To conclude, caregiving mentally ill patients cause severe psychological distress in the caregiver. Hence, psychoeducation and support to the caregiver within mental health settings on a routine basis is beneficial which helps them to handle their worries and promote their coping abilities.