FISCAL SNAGS AND THE FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF SCHIZOPHRENICS

Abstract

The prevalence of schizophrenia in India is about 3/1000 individuals (Gururaj Girish & Isaac, 2005). The World Health Report, 2001 states the prevalence of schizophrenia is approximately 24 million people across the globe, which is a shocking revelation. The instances about mental health concerns are increasing day by day. The breakdown in family due to several life changing issues especially recently with COVID-19 (Corona Virus Disease) pandemic has changed almost everything in a person’s life. In such circumstances managing and balancing a sound mental health is like an adventure. Family has a crucial role to play in it and a strong family bondage is a bonus to it. Nonetheless, every coin has two sides especially when the dilemma is long lasting like that of schizophrenia, it cripples down the family. OBJECTIVE: To study economic problems faced by the family caregivers of schizophrenics. METHOD: A descriptive study was conducted to examine the fiscal snags by the family caregivers of patients and schizophrenia. 200 family caregivers were selected by applying stratified systematic sampling method from the Hospitals for Mental Health operated by Department of Health, Government of Gujarat and a criterion of minimum facility of 100 beds was applied thereto. A structured interview tool was designed for the purpose of present study by referring the Burden Assessment Scale of Thara et.al (1998) and the Zarit Burden Interview. RESULTS: Most of the respondents strongly agree that their financial conditions are not adequate to look after the care receivers 33 (n=66). Most of the respondent worried for the future financial need of the care receivers 36.5 (n=73). Most of the respondents strongly agree the statement that they have never received any form of financial support from other family members is treating the care receiver 33.5 (n=67).