Exploring the Dual Dimensions: Economic Burden and Social Support Among Patients With Schizophrenia in Saudi Arabia

To determine the economic burden and level of social support among individuals with schizophrenia in Saudi Arabia by quantifying direct and indirect costs and identifying key determinants of perceived social support.

This study conducted in Saudi Arabia used a cost-of-illness methodology to evaluate schizophrenia among 250 participants aged 18 and older. Data were collected using the Treatment Inventory Cost in Psychiatric Patients for cost analysis, along with the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. The direct and indirect costs data were analyzed using SPSS and Excel.

The social support scale demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.973). Most patients (52.8%) reported moderate support, primarily from others. The average annual direct cost of schizophrenia was SAR 14 471.21 (US$3858) per patient, whereas the indirect cost was SAR 519.80 (USD 139) per 4 weeks. Costs varied based on age categories (P = .006). Education level, marital status, and working status were significantly associated with social support (P = .027, P = .027, P = .003, respectively). Retired patients demonstrated significantly higher costs, whereas an increase in social support was associated with a decrease in costs. The overall model exhibited statistical significance (F = 7.040, P < .001) and accounted for 5.4% of the variance in costs. Additionally, work and marital status influenced social support by 9.3%.

Schizophrenia presents a considerable economic burden in Saudi Arabia, with an average annual direct cost of SAR 14 471.21 (US$3858) per patient. The level of social support encountered by individuals with schizophrenia was predominantly moderate and demonstrated a significant correlation with marital status, educational attainment, and employment status.