[Does caring for a schizophrenic family member increase the risk of becoming ill? Psychological and psychosomatic troubles in caregivers of Schizophrenia patients]

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent caregivers of schizophrenia patients suffer from psychiatric and psychosomatic symptoms themselves; furthermore, whether there are differences between parents and spouses.

Method: 51 parents and 52 spouses of people with schizophrenia were interviewed regarding psychiatric and psychosomatic troubles using standardized questionnaires and diagnostic methods.

Results: A considerably increased prevalence of depressive disorders was found compared to the level in the general population. As well as mothers and wives, caregivers of patients with severe impairments of psycho-social functioning were particularly affected. The severity of the patient's disease and the caregiver's mental problems are significant predictors of psychosomatic complaints in parents and spouses. In addition, caregivers visit physicians more frequently, in particular family doctors, psychiatrists and psychotherapists.

Discussion: The results support the hypothesis that the burden carried by caregivers of severely affected schizophrenia patients increases their risk of becoming ill, which, as a consequence, leads to a greater use of medical resources. Specific offers of health care and advice on preventative measures appear to be necessary in order to preclude health impairments to caregivers as early as possible.