Understanding Help Seeking Behaviour Among Caregivers of Patients with Psychosis

Abstract

Caregivers of people with psychosis play a pivotal role in managing the sick individuals, often facing substantial emotional, mental, and physical burdens. The objective of this study was to discover help-seeking behaviour among caregivers, with a focus on their attitudes in the direction of accessing professional mental health services. For this exploratory cross- sectional study, 126 caregivers of patients with psychosis were selected through purposive sampling method. Data were accumulated with the usage of a Socio-Demographic Datasheet and the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale (ATSPPHS). Results revealed that a majority of caregivers held favorable attitudes towards seeking professional help. The study highlights that whilst positive attitudes are standard, cultural beliefs, stigma, and systemic boundaries were held to shape the help seeking activity. Findings underscore the need for adequate psychoeducation, stigma discount, and progressed admission to mental health services to help caregivers in playing their role suitably. Enhancing caregivers’ willingness and capacity to get professional help can contribute to higher effects for both caregivers and patients.