Pattern of burden on the family of patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder: A comparative study

Background: The concept of burden of care came from the realm of behavioral sciences primarily in the context of looking after a psychiatrically ill person. Caregivers of schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder (BPAD) have to take over the totality of patient care since most of these patients are treated at home. As a result of this, they are exposed to negative consequences of caregiving.

Aim: This study aims to assess and compare the pattern of burden among the families having patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Materials and methods: This cross-sectional, observational study was conducted on the outpatient department level at Ranchi Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Allied Science. This study included 30 patients with schizophrenia and equal number of age- and sex-matched patients with bipolar disorder. The diagnosis was made as per criteria of International Classification of Diseases 10 diagnostic criteria for research. Their caregivers who gave consent for their participation in the study and satisfy the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the study by purposive sampling. Tools administered were socio-demographic datasheet and family burden inventory schedule.

Statistical analysis used: Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and Mann-Whitney U test.

Results: Total caregiver burden, financial burden, disruption of routine family activities, family leisure, family interaction, and subjective burden felt by caregiver were significantly more in caregivers of schizophrenia patients compared to caregivers of BPAD. There was no significant difference in the two areas of burden, i.e., effect on physical health of the caregivers and effect on mental health of caregivers.

Conclusion: Caregivers of schizophrenia patients have significantly higher family burden as compared to caregivers of subjects with BPAD.