Lived experience of the family members of person with mental illness: a qualitative phenomenological study

Abstract

Background: It is well recognized that mental illness is a significant health issue in Bangladesh. Family members often play a critical role in managing people with mental illness. By understanding family members' contextualized perspectives, needs, and coping strategies, mental health providers can develop more effective strategies for engaging and collaborating with families. Several studies have examined the lived experiences of family members living with mental illness worldwide. To date, there has not been any related literature available, in particular, in the context of Bangladesh. Aim: The study aimed to explore and describe the lived experience of the first-degree family members of a person with mental illness. Method:This exploratory study used descriptive qualitative methodology and an interpretive phenomenological approach. Participants were recruited through the registry of the National Institute of Mental Health. Eight participants were selected purposively and interviewed face-to-face using a semi-structured interview guide. The interview guide had two parts: demographics and open-ended inquiry with probing questions. The participants chose the interview site according to their preferences. All interviews were conducted for 30–60 minutes. Descriptive notes were taken during interview. Data collection continued until saturation. A reflective journal was maintained from the beginning of the study. The interviews were audio-recorded as first-person narratives in Bangla, then transcribed and translated into English. Braun and Clark's six-step thematic analysis framework was used to identify, analyze, and present the data. Member checking was ensured to improve trustworthiness. Abstract Result: Seven over-reaching themes were found that summarize the lived experiences of family members: "Initial Consequences", "Interpersonal Relationship", "Social Response", "Financial Condition", "Coping Strategy", "Increased Resiliency" and "Daily Life Experience". Subthemes were also identified with the varied responses and experiences of family members. Conclusion: The study examined these family members' contextualized perspectives, needs, and coping methods using qualitative techniques and interpretive phenomenology. The identified themes show the initial effects of mental illness, family relationships, societal responses, financial difficulties, coping strategies, increased resiliency, and the impact on daily life. These findings demonstrate the complexity of family experiences and the necessity for comprehensive support systems. Keyword: Mental Illness, Coping Strategies, Resiliency, Positive Experiences, Daily Life Experience, Family Relationship