The Effectiveness of Psychoeducation in Managing Caregiver Burden in Schizophrenia Caregivers

Abstract

People suffering from schizophrenia are limited in daily function and working ability, thus making them unproductive and requiring assistance to meet their daily needs. The assistance is usually provided by an informal caregiver. Living with a person with schizophrenia is very stressful and can lead to caregiver burden, a burden borne by the individual who helps family members with a chronic illness. Studies have found that families with low-income status tend to experience high caregiver burden because they lack sufficient resources such as money, knowledge, and skills. Psychoeducation is a way that can be used to mitigate the lack of knowledge and skills in the caregiver. However, there is a lack of documented intervention in managing caregiver burden, particularly for people on low incomes in Indonesia. This study aimed to employ psychoeducation for schizophrenia caregivers to help them manage their caregiver burden. This study consisted of three participants, all female (average age: 50 years old) with low-income status. Participants joined the intervention, which consisted of seven sessions, each of which lasted around 90 minutes. A pre-test, post-test, and a two weeks' follow-up test were administered. Quantitative data were obtained by using the Zarit Burden Interview, Hopkins Symptom Checklist-22, and a General Health Questionnaire, while qualitative data were obtained by interview and observation. Quantitative data indicated a decrease in caregiver burden and psychological distress at the conclusion of the intervention, compared to pre-intervention. Qualitative data showed that participants can better understand how to cope with patients, reduce stress, and take care of themselves at the end of the intervention.