A Study on Assess the Burden and Coping Strategies Among Care Givers of Persons with Schizophrenia

Abstract

Introduction: Schizophrenia disorder is a severe mental disorder, having high indication of prevalence and disability. WHO report reveals that worldwide schizophrenia affects 24 million people. Usually, it starts in adolescence and early adult life and becomes a chronic disabled course. Objectives: This study explores the burden and coping strategies among caregivers of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Materials and methods: this study had employed a descriptive research design, 60 caregivers were selected from inpatients at a tertiary care mental health care setting in North Karnataka using purposive sampling. Data collection included socio-demographic schedules, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-5), Burden Assessment Scale (BAS), and Coping Strategies Scale. Findings: findings revealed that 80% of caregivers experienced severe burden. While females exhibit a higher prevalence of psychiatric morbidity, no statistically significant gender differences are observed in burden and coping strategies. These findings underscore the urgent need for tailored interventions to address the unique needs of caregivers in this population. Recommendations: The study recommends conducting a larger-scale comparative studies and implementing targeted psychosocial interventions aimed at alleviating burden and enhancing coping mechanisms among caregivers of individuals with schizophrenia. Such interventions may include coping skills training, problem-solving techniques, stress management, and community-based treatment options to effectively support both caregivers and individuals with schizophrenia.