Abstract:
Background: Stroke is a leading cause of disability and mortality globally, often leaving
survivors with long-term physical, emotional, and psychosocial challenges. These issues
are particularly severe in humanitarian settings such as refugee camps, where healthcare
services are limited. Despite the high burden, there is limited evidence regarding the
psychological health of stroke survivors and their caregivers in Rohingya refugee camps
in Bangladesh.
Objective: This study aimed to measure depression, anxiety, and stress levels among
stroke survivors and their caregivers in selected Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh.
Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in three conveniently
selected Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. The sample comprised
197 stroke survivors and 195 caregivers (aged ≥18 years), who provided consent. Data
were collected through structured questionnaires. The primary instrument was the
Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), a standardized 21-item self-report
inventory.
Result: The study revealed disturbingly high and severe psychological distress among
both stroke survivors and their caregivers. Among survivors, 82.2% reported severe
depression, 77.2% severe anxiety, and 64.5% severe stress. Among caregivers, 48.7%
had severe depression, 66.7% severe anxiety, and 32.3% severe stress. Significant
associations were found between disability level, family support and psychological
outcomes for survivors, and education level, for caregivers.
Conclusion: This study illustrates an alarming burden of depression, anxiety, and stress
among stroke survivors and their caregivers in Rohingya refugee camps. Results
highlight the significant importance of integrating culturally sensitive mental health and
psychosocial
support
(MHPSS) into health and rehabilitation services.
Keywords: Stroke survivors, caregivers, depression, anxiety, stress, Rohingya refugee
camps, rehabilitation, Bangladesh.
Description:
A thesis is submitted to the SSARC Regional Interprofessional Master’s Program in Rehabilitation Science of Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP) in conformity with the requirements for the Degree of M.Sc. in Rehabilitation Science, Bangladesh Health Professions Institute, Faculty of Medicine, the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh.