Psychological Effects Of Caring For Patients With Mental Disorders: A Case Of Caregivers With Patients At Mathare National Teaching And Referral Hospital, Nairobi County.
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Date
2023-10
Authors
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
School of Applied Human Sciences, Daystar University
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The study aimed to explore the mental health impacts on informal caregivers of patients with mental disorders at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital. Using a sample size of 93 and a descriptive survey approach, the study employed sociodemographic questionnaires and psychological tools like Zarit Burden Interview, Depression and Anxiety Stress Scale and Brief Cope Scale for data collection. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25 to understand the relationships between various factors. The study found that 48.8% reported normal depression levels, 45% normal anxiety, and 52.5% normal stress. Mild symptoms were present in 32.4% for depression, 38.8% for anxiety, and 30% for stress. Moderate levels were reported by 18.8% for depression, 12.4% for anxiety, and 11.3% for stress. Severe symptoms were less common, with 3.8% for anxiety and 6.2% for stress; no one reported severe or extremely severe depression. Sociodemographic factors like gender and age showed no significant correlation with mental health status. In terms of coping strategies, problem-focused coping had the highest mean score of 3.1045, followed by emotion-focused at 2.5055 and avoidant coping at 1.6313. The study found no significant association between burden level and coping strategies, with a Pearson Association value of 0.019. The study recommended urgent, tailored mental health support for informal caregivers at Mathari Mental Hospital, including specialized therapy, stress-management workshops, and financial aid. A comprehensive mental health support framework specifically targeting this group could be established. Community support groups could be set up, offering a platform for caregivers to share experiences, advice, and coping strategies.
Description
Masters Thesis
Keywords
Caring, Patients, Mental Disorders, Mathare National Teaching And Referral Hospital
Citation
Onyango, P,. (2023, Thesis). Psychological Effects Of Caring For Patients With Mental Disorders: A Case Of Caregivers With Patients At Mathare National Teaching And Referral Hospital, Nairobi County. School of Applied Human Sciences, Daystar University