Level of Depression among Family Members of Persons with Mental Illness: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Depression is the most common disorder of family members of person with mental illness. Mental illness not only affects the individual diagnosed but also has a profound impact on their immediate family members. The psychological disturbance on family members emphasizes a critical aspect of the overall mental health scenery. This research explores the level of depression among family members of individuals with mental illness, shedding light on the multifaceted factors contributing to this phenomenon. Aim: The aim of the study is to assess the level of depression and associated factors among primary caregivers of patients with mental illness. Methods: This study was conducted by the quantitative research with a cross-sectional design and convenience sampling. Data was collected by using standard questionnaire (Zahir Depression Scale). Data was collected from NIMH and Mental Health Day Center. The number of participants of this study were 210. Results: The result showed that socio-demographic characteristics like Age, Gender, Religion, Marital status, Occupation, and Monthly income. Out of 210 respondents, 77.6% (n=163) participants reported that they had suffering from mild depression, and only 22.4% (n=47) of participants reported that they had suffering from moderate types of depression and I didn’t find any severe and profound types of depressive caregivers. I identified the mean difference between the level of depression and demographic characteristics of caregivers of Person with Mental Illness. Conclusion: Finally, this study showed that family members of person with mental illness need psycho education and proper counseling to reduce their depression. It is necessary to ensure the effective treatment of depression of the caregivers of person with mental illness. Education and proper counseling help them to obtain the beneficial outcomes of their life. Keywords: Depression, Mental illness, level of depression, caregiving, Psychoeducation.