A cross-sectional study to assess the caregiver burden and the quality of life of caregivers of the patients suffering with psychiatric illness

BACKGROUND: The impairment due to the psychiatric disorders makes the sufferer unable to become independent, therefore require long term support and care by their relatives. About 32% of years lived with disability (YLD) and about 13% of disability adjusted life-years (DALYs) is found in mental illness. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The aims were to study the socio-demographic profile, the caregiver burden and quality of life of the caregivers of the patients with different psychiatric illness. Also, to compare the burden and quality of life among caregivers of different psychiatric groups. MATERIALS AND METHODS: It is a cross sectional study in which 120 caregivers of patients with psychiatric illnesses were included; divided into four groups (30 each): Anxiety, psychotic, mood and substance use disorders. After the consent, Zarit burden interview, socio demographic profile and quality of life -10 scales were used to assess the objectives. RESULTS: The results revealed that maximum caregivers were males, and spouses in relation with the patient. Most of them were married and educated. Maximum had mild to moderate level of burden (49.1%), followed by moderate to severe level of burden in about 22.5% caregivers. Significant association was seen with the burden level. But no significant association was seen with the quality of life. CONCLUSION: Caregivers of the psychiatric patients have to suffer a lot and may land up into the psychiatric symptoms themselves.