Social stigma and psychological distress among caregivers of children with epilepsy

Abstract

Background: Epilepsy is a widespread health issue that has major consequences for people of all ages. Since they appear to be more likely to experience despair, stress, worry, and discomfort, parents of children with epilepsy have reported greater negative effects and poor psychological and physical health. Many caregivers struggle with patience and effective adversity adaptation. Therefore, easing parents' psychological distress and stigma will enable them to give their kids the greatest care possible, which will aid in the children' recovery. Objective aims to: Assess stigma and psychological distress among caregivers of children with epilepsy and Find out relationship between psychological distress and stigma of caregivers and their socio-demographic data. Methodology: A descriptive (correlational) quantitative study design has been carried out from September 22th 2021 to February 11th 2022 in order to assess stigma and psychological distress among caregivers of children with epilepsy and to find out the relationship between stigma and psychological distress of caregiver and their socio-demographic characteristics. A non-probability sampling technique (purposive sample) of (72) caregivers of children with epilepsy in Najaf City / Najaf Health Directorate / Sadr Medical City (Middle Euphrates Center for Neurosciences in Najaf Governorate).