A Study to Assess the Perception of Stress among the Caregiver of Mentally Ill Patients

Abstract

Mental disorders not only have a significant negative influence on the health and well-being of the individual suffering from the disorder, but also on the health and well-being of their families and the entire community. Stress is a common problem for people with mental illness as well as their families and carers. The purpose of this study is to investigate the levels of stress experienced by caregivers while providing assistance to patients suffering from mental illness. Study carried out at tertiary care hospital in Karad city using descriptive survey method and data collected using convenient sampling technique.100 caregivers of mentally ill patients were included in the study, and a structured four-point rating scale consisting of 22 questions was used to assess perception of stress level Results: amongst the 100 samples, 73% of caregivers are facing moderate stress level, and only 27% has mild stress; not a single caregiver is stress-free. Conclusion- The caretakers of mentally ill patients have a level of stress that ranges from mild to moderate; therefore, steps should be taken to alleviate the stress experienced by caregivers.