Burden and burden-related features in caregivers of schizophrenia patients

Abstract

Objective: Burden, social support and coping methods in caregivers of patients and the relationship between these variables were cross-sectionally evaluated in this study. Method: Demographic form, Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and Ways of Coping Inventory were administered to the caregivers. The correlation of specified load levels with respect to the disease and characteristics of the caregivers were investigated. Results: The mean burden score of caregivers participated in the study was 60.45 points. By gender, burden in female caregivers was higher than men. The burden of employed caregivers was higher than unemployed. Statistically significant negative correlation between monthly income and burden was found. Helplessness and fatalistic attitudes were statistically correlated with burden. Conclusion: Caregivers who are not able to use effective coping styles have heavier burdens. Caregivers using nonfunctional coping styles, should be helped to change their attitudes.