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The Shadows of Stigma and Social Isolation among Caregivers of Patients with Mental Illness

Author(s) Neevatha Palani, Venkatesh Mathan Kumar Vasudevan, Shankar Shanmugam Rajendran, Anbalagan Marudhan, Velan Dhayanithipalani, Packiyalakshmi Muthuchamy, Maheswari Narayanasamy
Country India
Abstract Mental illness affects not only the individuals diagnosed but also profoundly impacts their caregivers, who often face stigma and social isolation. Caregivers play a crucial role in providing emotional, physical, and financial support, yet their own well-being is frequently overlooked. Stigma, arising from societal misconceptions and prejudices, can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and discrimination, further isolating caregivers from their communities. This isolation can strain their mental health, reduce social interactions, and limit access to support systems. Understanding the stigma and social isolation caregivers face is essential for fostering a more compassionate, informed society and improving mental health care outcomes..
Objectives: The main objectives were to assess the level of stigma and social isolation among caregivers of mentally ill patients, correlations between these variables, and examine their associations with selected socio demographic factors.
Materials and Methods: Conducted at the Institute of Mental Health, Chennai, the research employed a quantitative, non-experimental descriptive design with a sample of 60 schizophrenia patients selected through non-probability consecutive sampling. Data were collected using Socio-Demographic Data and validated tools, including the Affiliate Stigma Scale and BRI Isolation Scale Tool, and analysed with IBM SPSS software.
Results: The study revealed that Among 100 caregivers of patients with mental illness, stigma levels revealed that 30% experienced mild stigma, 35% moderate stigma, and 25% severe stigma. Social isolation levels indicated that 24% had low isolation, 55% had moderate, and 21% had high isolation. A strong correlation (r=0.98) was found, suggesting that increased stigma relates to higher social isolation. Employment status, caregiving duration, healthcare access, and income showed higher stigma scores, while gender correlated with increased social isolation. Statistical significance was assessed using the chi-square test, highlighting critical demographic influences on stigma and isolation levels.
Conclusion: In conclusion, caregivers of individuals with mental illness often experience significant stigma and social isolation, impacting their emotional well-being and quality of life. Addressing these challenges through increased awareness, social support, and inclusive mental health policies is vital. Empowering caregivers with resources and reducing societal prejudices can enhance both their lives and the overall care for Patients.
Keywords Stigma, Social Isolation, caregivers of Patients with mental illness.
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 16, Issue 1, January-March 2025
Published On 2025-02-17
Cite This The Shadows of Stigma and Social Isolation among Caregivers of Patients with Mental Illness - Neevatha Palani, Venkatesh Mathan Kumar Vasudevan, Shankar Shanmugam Rajendran, Anbalagan Marudhan, Velan Dhayanithipalani, Packiyalakshmi Muthuchamy, Maheswari Narayanasamy - IJSAT Volume 16, Issue 1, January-March 2025. DOI 10.71097/IJSAT.v16.i1.1945
DOI https://doi.org/10.71097/IJSAT.v16.i1.1945
Short DOI https://doi.org/g85dj4
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