Burden of Care and Coping among Caregivers of Mentally Ill Person

Background and Objectives: Mental illness is distressing for people affected and their family members. It is one of the leading problems of the world. These family members are often inadequately prepared to be the main caregiver for their ill relatives. This study aims to assess the burden and coping of caregivers of mentally ill person. Methodology: This cross-sectional survey aimed to assess the burden and coping strategies among the caregivers of mentally ill patients. A total of 145 participants were selected for the study who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. A structured questionnaire (Modified perceived problems of the caregivers and Coping Strategies Inventory) were used to assess the burden and coping strategy, respectively. Results: The caregivers were suffering from mild to moderate level of burden 57(39.3) and had mild coping strategies 69(47.6). Conclusion: The study has shown the level of perceived problem and coping strategies among the caregivers of mentally ill patients. The result revealed that there were a mild perceived burden and coping strategies among the caregivers of mentally ill patients. The identified maladaptive coping can help them to adopt the healthier coping style, so as to continue their care giving role.