Insights into psychosocial problems of primary caretakers of patients with schizophrenia in India

Abstract

Context: Schizophrenia affects 1%–1.5% of the population of the world. The illness commonly affects young population disturbing and disrupting the patient as well as his family. Research has demonstrated increased physical and mental health morbidities among these caretakers. Aims: The aim of this study was to explore various stresses and social problems faced by caretakers due to patient's schizophrenia. Settings and Design: A qualitative study of the distress experienced by primary caretaker of schizophrenia patients was undertaken at a tertiary hospital in an urban Indian setting. Methods: Relatives of 30 patients were assessed for their physical, psychological, and social problems. Their narratives of distress caused by patients' illness were recorded as verbatim and analyzed qualitatively manually. Statistical Analysis: Manual qualitative and quantitative analysis. Results: Caretaker was a parent in 72.3% of the cases. Distress due to blaming by relatives for not bringing up the child carefully was reportedly experienced by most parents, especially the mothers. Local cultural setting plays a huge influence in these highly personal and sensitive concerns. Social stigma, anxiety about illness, anger, and resentment were commonly reported. Conclusions: These insights into suffering of the caretakers of people suffering from schizophrenia in current local setting need to be considered and addressed as essential part of the management of Schizophrenia.