BURDEN ON FAMILIES OF SCHIZOPHERNIC AND CHRONIC LUNG DISEASE PATIENTS1

With the aims to find out the comparative burden on families of schizophrenics and patients with chronic lung disease and to study the areas of burden on families of two groups of patients, randomly selected samples of relatives of 25 patients in each group were studied by using a structured interview schedule. Sociodemographic data were recorded and Burden on the family interview schedule was administered. Results revealed more burden on families of schizophrenic patients in the financial area, effects on family leisure, family routine, family interaction and mental health of other family members. Among the schizophrenic's families more financial burden was seen where male member had the illness. The implications of these findings in management and rehabilitation of the patients have been highlighted.