Effect of psycho-educational program on families’ perception of burden and attitudes toward mental illness among caregivers of patients with schizophrenia

Abstract

Background In recent years, there has been increased interest in the role played by families in the treatment of patients with schizophrenia. Some family interventions may significantly reduce clinical difficulties and may have a positive effect, both emotionally and economically. Aim The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of psycho-educational program on perception of burden and attitudes toward mental illness among caregivers of patients with schizophrenia. Research design A quasi-experimental design was used in this study. Setting This study was conducted at an outpatient clinic in El-Azazi Hospital for Mental Health in Abo-Hamad City. Patients A convenient sample of 50 caregivers of patients with schizophrenia was included. Tools of data collection Three tools were used for data collection: sociodemographic data sheets, Caregiver Burden Scale, and Opinions about Mental Illness Scale. Procedure The sample was randomly divided into a control group (25 caregivers) and an experimental group (25 caregivers), who participated in a family psycho-educational program. The psycho-educational program consisted of thirteen 60-min sessions, held during a period of 2 months. Caregivers in the experimental group were evaluated at inclusion and at the end of the program. Caregivers in the control group were evaluated at inclusion and 2 months later. Results Most caregivers experienced severe burden, and also significant percent of caregivers had negative attitudes toward mental illness before intervention. Compared with the control group, the experimental group showed significantly reduced caregivers’ burden and improved attitudes toward mental illness after intervention. Conclusion The psycho-educational program for family members of patients with schizophrenia significantly reduced caregivers’ burden and improved caregivers’ attitudes toward mental illness. Recommendations There is a need to facilitate access to psycho-educational programs in mental health centers and clinics and to integrate this intervention into the regular treatment plans for patients with schizophrenia.