Perceived social support and family members of patients with mental disorders: A mixed method study

Abstract

IntroductionFamily members are the caregivers to patients with mental disorders at home, and the mental and spiritual pressures caused by this responsibility necessitate physical, mental, and perceived social support for these families. The present mixed method study is an attempt to elaborate on the perceived social support by Iranian families of patients with chronic mental disorders.Materials and methodsUsing a sequential mixed method explanatory study (quantitative and qualitative), 200 family members of patients with chronic mental disorders were selected through convenient sampling (quantitative phase). Data gathering was started using a demographics form and Stewart and Sherburne's perceived social support scale. The qualitative phase included 10 participants who obtained low scores in the quantitative phase and took part in private, face-to-face, in-depth, and semi-structured interviews. The data obtained in the quantitative phase were analyzed using statistical tests, and the interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.FindingsThe perceived social support by the participants was at a moderate level in different fields of tangible support, information and emotional support, kindness, and positive social interactions. The results of the qualitative phase revealed social support status in 15 subcategories, 6 categories, and 2 themes of support and acceptance by family, relatives, and friends, with support and being understood by society. The results of the qualitative and quantitative sections emphasized the needs of the patient's family members (who acted as caregivers for patients) for support in family, social, and emotional areas.ConclusionThe family members of patients with chronic mental disorders have different needs in the area of perceived social support. Such needs are more tangible in family members such as children with mentally ill parents or parents with mentally ill children. The results of this study can be used for educational and supportive planning for caregivers of patients, most of whom are family members.

Role of family in supporting children with mental disorders in Qatar

“…Mental health professionals and policymakers should be aware that gender may play a significant role in the level of support provided to people with mental disorders and consider gender-specific interventions to enhance the support provided by male family members. Age, gender and work play a vital role in the way how family members support children with mental problem [ [61] , [62] , [63] , [64] ].…”

Family support in adults with epilepsy

“…The lack of social support and the presence of family dysfunction are the main problems observed in families of patients with severe chronic illnesses, particularly in those with mental disorders. 17 18 19 …”

“…The lack of social support and the presence of family dysfunction are the main problems observed in families of patients with severe chronic illnesses, particularly in those with mental disorders. [17][18][19] In different cultures, the psychosocial repercussions of epilepsy such as stigma, low self-esteem, social restrictions, and the negative impact on psychosocial well-being affect patients and families. 20,21 Family involvement in epilepsy, particularly in cases with epileptic seizures refractory to treatment, can mean challenges, conflicts, and sometimes overload, or even emotional distancing and denial, which can reflect on the bond between patients with epilepsy and family members.…”