Psychosomatic Problems in Caregivers of Patients with Major Mental Illnesses

Abstract

Aim: To assess the psychosomatic problems among caregivers of patients with major mental illnesses. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive study, based on purposive sampling technique, 120 caregivers of patients with major mental illness admitted under Department of Psychiatry in a tertiary care centre were selected. Standardized four-dimensional symptom questionnaires were used to assess psychosomatic problems in caregivers of patients with major mental illnesses. Results: Caregivers of the patients with major mental illness had moderately high to high level of psychosomatic problems. There was no significant difference in psychosomatic problems of caregivers among major mental illnesses (Schizophrenia, mood disorders, and alcohol dependence syndrome). Conclusion: Caregivers of patients with major mental illnesses experience psychosomatic problems. There is no significant difference between the specific diagnosis of the patient and psychosomatic problems of caregivers.