Impact of Caregiving Burden on the Mental Health of Caregivers: A Study of Individuals Caring for Chronically Ill Patients

Abstract

The present research aims to investigate the relationship between the caregiving burden and its impact on the mental health of caregivers of chronically sick patients. It was hypothesized that the caregiving burden would be positively associated with higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among caregivers of chronically sick patients; and caregiving burden would significantly predict the psychological distress (depression, anxiety, stress) in caregivers of chronically sick patients. A sample of 220 caregivers (n=220) was selected conveniently which comprised of 102 males and 118 females selected from the different hospitals. The study employed a correlational research design to collect data, using two standardized scales, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) and Zarit Burden Interview. The data were analyzed by using SPSS to investigate the relationship between the caregiving burden and the caregivers' mental health. The findings showed a significant relationship between caregiving burden and increased psychological distress. This implies that higher caregiving burden leads to higher psychological distress. The findings emphasize the importance of proper interventions and support facilities for caregivers. The study adds to the existing knowledge by addressing the impact of the caregiving burden. Additional research is needed to investigate the potential mediator or moderators of the association between the burden and the mental health outcomes, thereby improving our understanding of the intricacies of caregiving experiences.