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Baek S, Shin O, Park S, Ko A, Park S, Kang EN. The Relationship between the Working Environment and Quality of Life among Home Health Aides: Focusing on the Mediation Role of Burnout. JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK 2024:1-22. [PMID: 39105540 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2024.2372111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
As South Korea's population rapidly ages, there is an increasing demand for home aides. However, little is known about how the caregiving environment affects HHAs. Guided by the environment comfort model, we examined the association between care recipients' home environment and HHA's quality of life, focusing on how burnout mediates this relationship. Our data came from a national survey of home health aides in 2020 (N = 786). We conducted an exploratory factor analysis to identify six factors related to the care environment in three dimensions: physical (1. space; 2. indoor/outdoor conditions), functional (3. home appliances; 4. heating/air conditioning), and psychological (5. satisfaction with the home environment; 6. relationships with care recipients and their families). We then used a path analysis to examine the relationship between these factors, burnout, and quality of life. Our findings show that safe indoor/outdoor conditions and positive relationships with care recipients and their families are associated with lower levels of burnout, leading to a higher quality of life (p < .05). This highlights the importance of considering both physical and psychological aspects of the caregiving environment to prevent burnout and improve the quality of life for HHAs, ultimately contributing to high-quality services for care recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehyun Baek
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Oejin Shin
- School of Social Work, Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois, USA
| | - Soobin Park
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ahra Ko
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Social Welfare Policy, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sojung Park
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Eun-Na Kang
- Korean Institute for Health and Social Affairs (KIHASA), Sejong, South Korea
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Bhugra D, Liebrenz M, Ventriglio A, Ng R, Javed A, Kar A, Chumakov E, Moura H, Tolentino E, Gupta S, Ruiz R, Okasha T, Chisolm MS, Castaldelli-Maia J, Torales J, Smith A. World Psychiatric Association-Asian Journal of Psychiatry Commission on Public Mental Health. Asian J Psychiatr 2024; 98:104105. [PMID: 38861790 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2024.104105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Although there is considerable evidence showing that the prevention of mental illnesses and adverse outcomes and mental health promotion can help people lead better and more functional lives, public mental health remains overlooked in the broader contexts of psychiatry and public health. Likewise, in undergraduate and postgraduate medical curricula, prevention and mental health promotion have often been ignored. However, there has been a recent increase in interest in public mental health, including an emphasis on the prevention of psychiatric disorders and improving individual and community wellbeing to support life trajectories, from childhood through to adulthood and into older age. These lifespan approaches have significant potential to reduce the onset of mental illnesses and the related burdens for the individual and communities, as well as mitigating social, economic, and political costs. Informed by principles of social justice and respect for human rights, this may be especially important for addressing salient problems in communities with distinct vulnerabilities, where prominent disadvantages and barriers for care delivery exist. Therefore, this Commission aims to address these topics, providing a narrative overview of relevant literature and suggesting ways forward. Additionally, proposals for improving mental health and preventing mental illnesses and adverse outcomes are presented, particularly amongst at-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Bhugra
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neurosciences, Kings College, London SE5 8AF, United Kingdom.
| | - Michael Liebrenz
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Roger Ng
- World Psychiatric Association, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Anindya Kar
- Advanced Neuropsychiatry Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Egor Chumakov
- Department of Psychiatry & Addiction, St Petersburg State University, St Petersburg, Russia
| | | | | | - Susham Gupta
- East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Roxanna Ruiz
- University of Francisco Moaroquin, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | | | | | | | | | - Alexander Smith
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Gumikiriza-Onoria JL, Nakigudde J, Mayega RW, Giordani B, Sajatovic M, Mukasa MK, Buwembo D, Lwere K, Nakasujja N. Psychological distress among family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in Uganda. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:602. [PMID: 39009993 PMCID: PMC11247816 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-05190-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) present growing global health challenges, especially in aging populations, such as Uganda. In Uganda, familial caregiving, predominantly undertaken by female relatives, is the primary form of support provided to patients with ADRD. Cultural stigma around dementia and limited access to support services amplify caregivers' challenges. This study examined psychological distress, depression, and quality of life (QoL) among family caregivers of patients with ADRD in Wakiso District, Uganda. METHODS This cross-sectional study involved 90 caregivers from three sub-counties in Wakiso, selected through purposive sampling to capture diverse experiences. Participants included caregivers aged 18 years and older who were knowledgeable and had cared for a person with ADRD for not less than six months, with those providing more than 70% of physical care being prioritised. Data were collected using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, the Caregiver Dementia Quality of Life Measurement Scale, and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, with an 80% response rate achieved through local collaboration. The statistical analyses focused on psychological distress, QoL, and depression. RESULTS The study included 82.2% females and 17.8% males, with a median age of 52 years for females and 35 years, respectively. Females were more likely to be single or widowed, whereas males were more likely to be married. The study revealed a high prevalence of psychological distress and depression among caregivers (64.4%) regardless of sex. The analysis indicated that having children was a significant predictor of better QoL (OR 3.04, 95% CI 1.79-5.66, p = 0.034) and a lower risk of depression (OR 0.10, 95% CI 0.01-0.86, p = 0.036). No other sociodemographic factors were significantly associated with health outcomes across the models. CONCLUSION Our findings revealed a heavy burden of psychological distress and depression among Ugandan caregivers of patients with ADRD, highlighting the need for structured support systems, including mental health services and gender-responsive interventions in low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Janet Nakigudde
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Roy William Mayega
- Department of Psychiatry, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, School of public Health, Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Bruno Giordani
- Department of Psychiatry; University of Michigan Faculty Ombuds; Associate Director, Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Center; Senior Director of the Mary A. Rackham Institute (MARI), Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Martha Sajatovic
- Neurological and Behavioral Outcomes Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mark Kaddu Mukasa
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dennis Buwembo
- Department of Psychiatry, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, School of public Health, Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kamada Lwere
- Department of Psychiatry, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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Wootton O, King A, Moy K, Stein DJ, Susser ES. Disability benefits protect against lost income for South Africans living with Schizophrenia. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024; 59:1279-1283. [PMID: 37847255 PMCID: PMC11021376 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-023-02577-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the economic impact of disability grants for people living with schizophrenia in low- and middle- income countries. In this brief report, we show that receipt of disability benefits is significantly associated (β = 0.105, p < 0.0001) with increased household and personal wealth in large sample of people living with schizophrenia in South Africa (n = 1154). This study provides further support for the use of disability grants as a mechanism to protect people living with schizophrenia and their families against the economic costs associated with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Wootton
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Aisha King
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kayley Moy
- Department of Global Public Health, New York University, New York City, USA
| | - Dan J Stein
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- SAMRC Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ezra S Susser
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
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Lin CC, Huang YC, Lee Y, Lin PY, Chiu NM, Hung CF, Wang LJ. Suicide risks among caregivers of patients with depressive disorders. J Int Med Res 2024; 52:3000605241266226. [PMID: 39075852 PMCID: PMC11289805 DOI: 10.1177/03000605241266226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the suicide risk factors among caregivers of individuals with depression who may develop suicidal ideation due to the ongoing challenges of managing the patient's mood fluctuations. METHODS This cross-sectional study enrolled dyads of patients with depression and their caregivers from a medical centre. The assessment included a psychiatric diagnostic interview, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the List of Threatening Experiences, Benefit Finding Scale, Numerical Pain Rating Scale, Stigma Subscale of the Explanatory Model Interview Catalogue, Big Five Inventory-10, the Family APGAR Index and the Suicide Assessment Scale. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis were used to explore the interrelationship between the mental health of patients and caregivers. RESULTS Among the 125 caregivers, 60.0% (n = 75) were females. The most common psychiatric diagnoses were depressive disorders (33 of 125; 26.4%), followed by anxiety disorders (21 of 125; 16.8%) and insomnia disorder (19 of 125; 15.2%). There was a significant association between the stressful life events of depressive patients and the suicide risk of their caregivers. The severity of anxiety and depression in caregivers was significantly associated with the suicide risk among the caregivers. CONCLUSION A relationship may exist between the psychological well-being of patients with depression and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Chi Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung
| | - Yu-Chi Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung
| | - Yu Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung
| | - Pao-Yen Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung
| | - Nien-Mu Chiu
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung
| | - Chi-Fa Hung
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung
| | - Liang-Jen Wang
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung
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Wu Y, Xu J, Gao Y, Zheng J. The relationship between health behaviors and quality of life: the mediating roles of activities of daily living and psychological distress. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1398361. [PMID: 38864012 PMCID: PMC11165072 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1398361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study is to examine the role of activities of daily living performance (ADLs) and psychological distress in mediating the process by which health behaviors affect QOL. Methods A non-probabilistic study was conducted among 1,065 older adult people older than 60 years. Participants were assessed using the Barthel Index, Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ), Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), Australian Active Survey, and EQ-VAS score. The SPSS22.0 software was used to analyze the differences in QOL scores among older adults with different demographic characteristics. Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between health behaviors, psychological distress, ADLs, and QOL. Amos23.0 software was used to construct structural equation model (SEM) to analyze the path of health behavior affecting QOL and the mediating role of BADLs, IADLs and psychological distress. Results (1) The direct effect of health behaviors on QOL was not significant in the model; (2) ADLs had multiple mediating effects on the relationship between health behaviors and QOL, and the incidence of ADL limitation was negatively correlated with the reported QOL in the older adult; (3) Psychological distress had a significant mediating effect on the relationship between health behaviors and QOL. Conclusion The results of this study elucidated the mechanisms of the correlation between health behaviors and QOL, and added to the existing literature. In addition, these mediating factors and indirect pathways have been identified as targets for intervention to improve the QOL of older adult individuals, which is important for achieving healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Juan Zheng
- School of Management, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Daliri DB, Afaya A, Laari TT, Abagye N, Aninanya GA. Exploring the burden on family caregivers in providing care for their mentally ill relatives in the Upper East Region of Ghana. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003075. [PMID: 38626022 PMCID: PMC11020355 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
Caring for the mentally ill involves numerous challenges, including financial difficulties, stigma, and psychosocial issues, among others. Unpaid family caregivers must endure these challenges as they continue their care for their relatives with mental illness. Despite these burdens and their concomitant effects on both the patients and their caregivers, there is no evidence of this burden in the Bolgatanga municipality. This study explored the burden on family caregivers providing care for mentally ill relatives in the Bolgatanga Municipality of the Upper East Region of Ghana. The study employed a phenomenological research design. Fifteen family caregivers were purposively sampled from two secondary-level health facilities. In-depth interviews were conducted, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. NVivo 12 pro software was used for data analysis. Thematic analysis was conducted following Braun and Clarke's approach. The study identified three themes including social, physical, and psychological burdens. Under social burden, financial challenges and stigma were identified, weight loss was identified as a physical burden, and poor concentration as a psychological burden. These themes represent the challenges encountered by the family caregivers as they provided care for their mentally ill relatives. There is a need to provide support for family caregivers including respite, formation of support groups, and financial support to alleviate family caregivers of the burdens they endure. Additionally, it is imperative to integrate mental health services into the national health insurance scheme to alleviate the financial burden on family caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Bomansang Daliri
- Presbyterian Psychiatric Hospital, Bolgatanga, Ghana
- Department of International and Global Health, School of Public Health, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Agani Afaya
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
- Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, College of Nursing, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Nancy Abagye
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Gifty Apiung Aninanya
- Department of Health Services Policy Planning Management and Economics, School of Public Health, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
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Vita A, Barlati S, Porcellana M, Sala E, Lisoni J, Brogonzoli L, Percudani ME, Iardino R. The patient journey project in Italian mental health services: results from a co-designed survey on clinical interventions and current barriers to improve the care of people living with schizophrenia. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1382326. [PMID: 38606407 PMCID: PMC11007707 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1382326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The Patient Journey Project aimed to analyze the scenario among Italian Mental Health Services (MHS) to understand the clinical interventions that are properly implemented and the ones deserving further implementation to design an effective treatment plan for patients living with schizophrenia (PLWS). Methods The 60-items survey was co-designed with all the stakeholders (clinicians, expert patients and caregivers) involved in the Patient Journey and focused on three phases of schizophrenia course: early detection and management, acute phase management, long-term management/continuity of care. Respondents were Heads of the Mental Health Departments and Addiction Services (MHDAS) or facilities directors throughout Italian MHS. For each statement, respondents expressed the consensus on the importance and the degree of implementation in clinical practice. Results Considering the importance of the statement, strong consensus was reached for most of the statements. Good levels of implementation were found on 2/17 statements of early detection and management, on 3/16 statements for acute phase management and on 1/27 statements of long-term management/continuity of care. Poor levels of implementation were found on 1/17 statements of early detection and management, none of acute phase management, and 4/27 statements for long-term management/continuity of care. Moderate levels of implementation were found on 14/17 statements for early detection and management, on 13/16 statements of acute phase management, and on 22/27 statements of long-term management/continuity of care. Thus, among Italian MHDAS, most interventions for PLWS were moderately implemented in clinical practice. Discussion Italian MHS have to provide new strategies and structural actions to overcome these current limitations and barriers to effectively improve the journey of PLWS. The areas that deserve most implementation include interventions during the early stage (especially the continuity of care between Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services and Adult Mental Health Services), the evidence-based psychosocial interventions during the chronic stages of the disorder, and the continuity of care after acute hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Vita
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Barlati
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Matteo Porcellana
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Niguarda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Sala
- Department of Political and Social Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Jacopo Lisoni
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Gumikiriza-Onoria JL, Nakigudde J, Giordani B, Mayega RW, Sajatovic M, Mukasa MK, Buwembo D, Lwere K, Nakasujja N. Psychological Distress among family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias in Uganda. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3918857. [PMID: 38410439 PMCID: PMC10896410 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3918857/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (ADRD) present growing global health challenges, especially in aging populations such as Uganda. In Uganda, familial caregiving, predominantly undertaken by female relatives, is the primary form of support for patients with ADRD. Cultural stigma around dementia and limited access to support services amplify caregivers' challenges. This study examined psychological distress, depression, and quality of life (QoL) among family caregivers of patients with ADRD in Wakiso District, Uganda. Methods This cross-sectional study involved 90 caregivers from three sub-counties in Wakiso selected through purposive sampling to capture diverse experiences. Data were collected using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, Caregiver Dementia Quality of Life Measurement Scale, and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, with an 80% response rate achieved through local collaboration. Statistical analyses focused on psychological distress, QoL, and depression. Results The study included 82.2% females and 17.8% males, with a median age of 52 years for females and 35 years, respectively. Females were more likely to be single or widowed, whereas males were more likely to be married. The study revealed a high prevalence of psychological distress and depression among caregivers (64.4%) regardless of sex. The analysis indicated that having children was a significant predictor of better QoL (OR 3.04, 95% CI 1.79-5.66, p=0.034) and lower risk of depression (OR 0.10, 95% CI 0.01-0.86, p=0.036). No other sociodemographic factor was significantly associated with health outcomes across the models. Conclusion Our findings revealed a heavy burden of psychological distress and depression among Ugandan caregivers of patients with ADRD, highlighting the need for structured support systems, including mental health services and gender-responsive interventions, in low-resource settings.
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Oikonomou V, Gkintoni E, Halkiopoulos C, Karademas EC. Quality of Life and Incidence of Clinical Signs and Symptoms among Caregivers of Persons with Mental Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:269. [PMID: 38275549 PMCID: PMC10815690 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12020269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caring for individuals with mental disorders poses significant challenges for caregivers, often leading to compromised quality of life and mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression. This study aims to assess the extent of these challenges among caregivers in Greece, identifying which demographic factors influence their well-being. METHOD A total of 157 caregivers were surveyed using the SF-12 Health Survey for quality-of-life assessment and the DASS-21 questionnaire for evaluating stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms. t-tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, Pearson's correlation coefficients, and regression analyses were applied to understand the associations between demographics, quality of life, and mental health outcomes. RESULTS The study found that caregivers, especially women and younger individuals, faced high levels of mental health challenges. Marital status, educational level, and employment status also significantly influenced caregivers' well-being. Depression was the most significant factor negatively correlating with the mental component of quality of life. The magnitude of the burden experienced by caregivers highlighted the urgency for targeted social and financial support, as well as strategic treatment programs that consider caregiver well-being. CONCLUSIONS Caregivers of individuals with mental disorders endure significant stress, anxiety, and depression, influencing their quality of life. Demographic factors such as age, gender, marital status, education, and employment status have notable impacts. Findings emphasize the need for society-wide recognition of caregivers' roles and the creation of comprehensive support and intervention programs to alleviate their burden, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Oikonomou
- School of Social Sciences, Hellenic Open University, 26335 Patras, Greece; (V.O.); (E.C.K.)
| | - Evgenia Gkintoni
- Department of Psychiatry, University General Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | | | - Evangelos C. Karademas
- School of Social Sciences, Hellenic Open University, 26335 Patras, Greece; (V.O.); (E.C.K.)
- Department of Psychology, University of Crete, 74100 Rethymnon, Greece
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Bremmers LGM, Fabbricotti IN, Gräler ES, Uyl-de Groot CA, Hakkaart-van Roijen L. The impact of informal care provision on the quality of life of adults caring for persons with mental health problems: A cross-sectional assessment of caregiver quality of life. Health Psychol Open 2024; 11:20551029241262883. [PMID: 39118836 PMCID: PMC11307371 DOI: 10.1177/20551029241262883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
This study assessed the quality of life of informal caregivers for individuals with mental health problems in the Netherlands. An online survey was administered to a panel of informal caregivers in June 2020 (n = 261). Informal caregivers of persons with mental problems were found to have an exceptionally low quality of life. A high subjective burden (p < .001), lower perseverance time (p = .016), low caregiver overall health status (p = .004) and psychological wellbeing (p = .008), younger caregiver age (p = .011), child caregiving responsibilities (p = .025), and no social support network (p = .038) were associated with worse quality of life scores. These findings shed light on the significant challenges faced by informal caregivers of persons with mental health problem. This raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of informal care and mental healthcare reform.
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Kalhovde AM, Kitzmüller G. Family Caregivers' Trajectories of Distress While Caring for a Person With Serious Mental Illness. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2024; 34:154-165. [PMID: 37905732 PMCID: PMC10714708 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231203627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Serious mental illness (SMI) can significantly impact the lives of individuals and their families. These families often experience great emotional distress over time due to the early onset of SMI, which in turn leads to long-term trajectories and only partial recovery. However, we do not fully understand the emotional distress of family caregivers. Thus, our aim was to enrich the understanding of the lived experiences of family caregivers' emotional trajectories of distress while caring for persons with SMI. We conducted a secondary analysis using a hermeneutic approach to the narratives of seven family caregivers from a study on living with voices unheard by others. Participants' trajectories of emotional distress came forth as being thrust on an unpredictable, intensely worrisome, and indefinite journey. The following themes highlighted this tumultuous journey: fumbling in the dark trying to grasp the incomprehensible, "on your toes"-enduring unpredictability, facing different forms of fear, and battling waves of sadness and regret. Caregivers face multiple threats to their well-being and sometimes even to their health. Their distress appeared to vary according to their relationship with the person with SMI, whether they lived with the ill person, illness trajectory, and amount of violent or suicidal behavior. The results underscore the need for individualized and timely information, opportunities for dialogue with healthcare providers with and without the person with SMI, and inclusion in care planning. Caregivers who have experienced trauma, threats of violence, and rejection require special attention.
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Saffari M, Chang KC, Chen JS, Potenza MN, Yen CF, Chang CW, Huang PC, Tsai HC, Lin CY. Sleep Quality and Self-Stigma Mediate the Association Between Problematic Use of Social Media and Quality of Life Among People With Schizophrenia in Taiwan: A Longitudinal Study. Psychiatry Investig 2023; 20:1034-1044. [PMID: 37997331 PMCID: PMC10678148 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2023.0169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Problematic use of social media (PUSM) may affect sleep quality and self-stigma in people with schizophrenia and consequently reduce their quality of life (QoL). This longitudinal study investigated if sleep quality and self-stigma mediated relationships between PUSM and QoL. METHODS One-hundred-and-ninety-three outpatients with schizophrenia were recruited from a psychiatric center in Taiwan from April 2019 to August 2021 and participated in a longitudinal study at intervals of three months between measurements. QoL was assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire Brief Version; sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index; self-stigma using the Self-Stigma Scale-Short; and PUSM using the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale. Via SPSS 20.0, general estimating equation models assessed temporal associations between variables. Via R software, mediating effects of self-stigma and sleep quality were examined through Monte Carlo simulations with 20,000 repetitions. RESULTS Mean scores of physical, psychological, social and environmental QoL ranged from 11.86 to 13.02. Mean scores of sleep quality and self-stigma were 9.1±4.5 and 2.2±0.8, respectively. Sleep quality and self-stigma were directly related to QoL (p<0.001) and mediated indirect relationships between PUSM and all components of QoL with a range of 95% confidence intervals spanning from -0.0591 to -0.0107 for physical QoL; -0.0564 to -0.0095 for psychological QoL; -0.0292 to -0.0035 for social QoL; and -0.0357 to -0.0052 for environmental QoL. CONCLUSION Sleep quality and self-stigma mediated relationships between PUSM and QoL in people with schizophrenia. Developing interventions targeting PUSM, sleep, and self-stigma may help improve QoL in people with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Saffari
- Health Research Center, Life Style Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Health Education Department, Faculty of Health, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kun-Chia Chang
- Department of General Psychiatry, Jianan Psychiatric Center, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Sheng Chen
- Department of Medical Research, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA
- Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT, USA
- Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Cheng-Fang Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- College of Professional Studies, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Wen Chang
- Graduate Institute of Social Work, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Ching Huang
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Chi Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ying Lin
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Biostatistics Consulting Center, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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14
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Chen X, Xiao X, Huang X, Wang R, Yang J, Yang L, Wang Y, Zhou C. Empowerment and quality of life: the mediating role of self-efficacy and health literacy among spousal caregivers in China. Health Promot Int 2023; 38:daad133. [PMID: 37874985 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daad133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the chain mediation model of self-efficacy and health literacy between empowerment and quality of life among spousal caregivers of disabled elderly based on 'Marriage Binding'. From December 2020 to June 2022, the cross-sectional study was conducted in hospitals and communities, in Guangdong, Fujian, Sichuan, Hunan, Jiangxi, Guangxi and Yunnan provinces, China. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the demographic data and four main variables, including empowerment, self-efficacy, health literacy and quality of life. Spearman correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between the four main research variables. Multiple Linear Regression and bootstrap analysis were used to analyze the direct and indirect effects among them. Any two variables of spousal caregivers were correlated among empowerment, self-efficacy, health literacy and quality of life. Self-efficacy and health literacy can separately and sequentially mediate the relationship between empowerment and quality of life. To improve the quality of life of spousal caregivers of disabled elderly, the mediating role of self-efficacy, the mediating role of health literacy and the chain mediating role of self-efficacy and health literacy should take effect. In the future, some intervention studies should be taken to enhance the effects of those variables that may be beneficial for improving quality of life of spousal caregivers of disabled elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Chen
- Department of Nursing, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
- School of Nursing, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
| | - Xiuying Xiao
- Department of Nursing, Zhuhai Fifth People's Hospital, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519090, PR China
| | - Xiu'e Huang
- Department of Nursing, Long Gang Districy People's Hospital of Shen Zhen, ShenZhen, Guangdong, 518172, PR China
| | - Run Wang
- Department of Nursing, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Nursing, Long Gang Districy People's Hospital of Shen Zhen, ShenZhen, Guangdong, 518172, PR China
| | - Lingli Yang
- Department of Nursing, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
| | - Yiling Wang
- Department of Nursing, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
| | - Chunlan Zhou
- Department of Nursing, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
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15
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Girdhar A, Patil R. Caregivers' Burden in Patients With Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia and Its Relationship With Anxiety and Depression in Caregivers: A Narrative Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e47497. [PMID: 38022267 PMCID: PMC10663874 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mental disorders affect a person's thinking, mood, and/or behaviour and can range in severity from minor to severe. Nearly one in five persons have a mental disease as stated by the National Institute of Mental Health. A serious mental illness called bipolar disorder causes extreme mood swings that can range from manic to depressive states. Schizophrenia is a brain condition that leads individuals to perceive reality differently. They cannot distinguish between what they are actually experiencing and what they are just imagining. Both illnesses have a variety of negative effects on the patient as well as the primary caregiver, who may be the patient's family or other relatives. In the case of a patient with mental illness, the family's role is crucial. Family members' long-term caregiving obligations may result in a caregiving burden that negatively impacts the caregivers' quality of life, career and personal relationships. Depression generally undermines carers' ability to fulfil their crucial supportive role towards their relative with a mental illness while contributing to their distress and handicap. Given the high prevalence of caregiver depression, it is critical to address this issue not just by creating therapies to treat caregiver depression once it has started, but also by preventing caregiver depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anshita Girdhar
- Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Ragini Patil
- Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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Chen X, Qiao C, Arber A, Shen Y, Rui Y, Zhang R, Pei Z, Tang Y, Sha Z, Bao J, Zhang J, Li J, Wang D, Wang X. Enhancing resilient coping strategies for quality of life in Chinese adult children caregiving for parents with advanced cancer: a cross-sectional study. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:591. [PMID: 37749433 PMCID: PMC10520155 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-08057-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigated the mediating role of individual resilience in the relationship between caregiver burden and quality of life (QoL) among Chinese adult children providing care to their parents with advanced cancer, with the aim to inform effective coping strategies and positive caregiving outcomes. METHODS In a cross-sectional design, 614 caregivers from multiple centers, whose parents were undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, completed questionnaires encompassing demographics, caregiver burden, symptoms of anxiety and depression, resilience, and QoL. RESULTS Findings revealed a moderate level of caregiver burden among participants, significantly influenced by factors including education level, family income, single-child status, and participation in social media patient support groups. Caregivers who were only children or involved in patient support groups reported higher burden. Importantly, path analysis showed a significant impact of caregiver burden, anxiety, and depression on QoL, with these relationships being mediated by individual resilience. CONCLUSIONS Chinese adult child caregivers face a considerable burden, negatively influencing their QoL. Individual resilience, a modifiable factor, was identified as a critical mediator in this relationship, mitigating the negative implications of caregiver burden, anxiety, and depression. These findings underscore the need for caregiver interventions that consider not only demographics but also the socio-psychological dynamics of caregiving to enhance caregiver QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian Chen
- Gynaecology Department, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengping Qiao
- Gynaecology Department, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Anne Arber
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Yan Shen
- Interventional Radiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital With Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yehao Rui
- Oncology Department, Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Oncology Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongling Pei
- Interventional Radiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital With Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Tang
- Radiotherapy Department, The First Affiliated Hospital With Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziyu Sha
- Oncology Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianying Bao
- Interventional Radiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital With Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia Zhang
- Oncology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital With Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinhua Li
- Geriatric Oncology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital With Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Wang
- Oncology Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Interventional Radiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital With Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
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McGarrigle CA, Ward M, Kenny RA. An investigation of what protective individual- and community-level factors are associated with life satisfaction in middle-aged and older family carers in Ireland. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1207523. [PMID: 37637804 PMCID: PMC10457003 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1207523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Family care plays an essential role in providing care in society. However, caring can cause stress, and mental and physical responses to caring vary widely. Different outcomes for carers may reflect different approaches or adaptability to caring and their ability to maintain or recover their mental health and wellbeing following an adverse event (psychosocial resilience). We aim to identify factors that may promote psychosocial resilience, conceptualized as maintaining or recovering subjective wellbeing and operationalized as satisfaction with life, among carers. Methods Data were from 6 Waves (2009-2021) of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Aging (TILDA), a prospective biennial nationally representative longitudinal study of older adults aged ≥50 in Ireland. Family caregiving was assessed in Waves 3-6. Participants were asked if they cared for someone, their relationship to the recipient, and the number of hours per week that they provided care. We used growth mixture modeling to identify latent trajectories of satisfaction with life (SWL) before and after caring was initiated. Regression modeling was then used to identify protective factors (at the individual, family, and community levels) associated with resilient trajectories. Results Overall, 731 (12.2%) participants became carers during follow-up. We identified three trajectories in SWL in carers following initiation of caring, namely, Resilient-Stable (81%), Resilient-Recovery (12%), and Non-recovery (6%). Membership in Resilient-Stable and Resilient-Recovery trajectories was associated with fewer depressive symptoms (OR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.78, 0.94) and chronic conditions (OR = 0.21, 95% CI 0.06, 0.74), larger social networks (OR = 2.03, 95% CI 1.06, 3.86), more close friends and relatives (OR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.01, 1.32), and caring for someone other than a child (OR = 0.19, 95% CI 0.07, 0.51) compared to the Non-recovery group. Conclusion Becoming a family carer was associated with a decline in SWL over time in some carers. However, most carers either did not experience a decline in SWL or recovered their SWL over time. We found that both individual and community-level supports may be protective for carers' wellbeing. These results will inform the priorities for social and community-level services and support for older carers and contribute to the design of new projects and programs to meet these needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine A. McGarrigle
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark Ward
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rose Anne Kenny
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- St James's Hospital, Mercer's Institute for Successful Ageing, Dublin, Ireland
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18
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Amini S, Jalali A, Jalali R. Perceived social support and family members of patients with mental disorders: A mixed method study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1093282. [PMID: 36815153 PMCID: PMC9939439 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1093282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Family members are the caregivers to patients with mental disorders at home, and the mental and spiritual pressures caused by this responsibility necessitate physical, mental, and perceived social support for these families. The present mixed method study is an attempt to elaborate on the perceived social support by Iranian families of patients with chronic mental disorders. Materials and methods Using a sequential mixed method explanatory study (quantitative and qualitative), 200 family members of patients with chronic mental disorders were selected through convenient sampling (quantitative phase). Data gathering was started using a demographics form and Stewart and Sherburne's perceived social support scale. The qualitative phase included 10 participants who obtained low scores in the quantitative phase and took part in private, face-to-face, in-depth, and semi-structured interviews. The data obtained in the quantitative phase were analyzed using statistical tests, and the interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Findings The perceived social support by the participants was at a moderate level in different fields of tangible support, information and emotional support, kindness, and positive social interactions. The results of the qualitative phase revealed social support status in 15 subcategories, 6 categories, and 2 themes of support and acceptance by family, relatives, and friends, with support and being understood by society. The results of the qualitative and quantitative sections emphasized the needs of the patient's family members (who acted as caregivers for patients) for support in family, social, and emotional areas. Conclusion The family members of patients with chronic mental disorders have different needs in the area of perceived social support. Such needs are more tangible in family members such as children with mentally ill parents or parents with mentally ill children. The results of this study can be used for educational and supportive planning for caregivers of patients, most of whom are family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Amini
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Amir Jalali
- Substance Abuse Prevention Research Center, Research Institute for Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran,*Correspondence: Amir Jalali ✉
| | - Rostam Jalali
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
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