Caregiver psychological distress in psychiatric inpatient settings: findings from a cross-sectional study

Mental health is essential to overall well-being, yet the psychological impact on family members of patients with mental disorders is often overlooked. This study examines the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among family members of psychiatric inpatients at a hospital in Iran.

This cross-sectional study included 200 family members (parents, siblings, spouses, and children) recruited from a psychiatric hospital between July and December 2024 using convenience sampling. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire and the validated Persian version of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 via descriptive statistics and appropriate inferential tests.

Of the 200 caregivers, 52% were male and 48% female, with a mean age of 46.2 ± 14.7 years. The mean duration of the patient's illness was 8.4 ± 9.2 years, with bipolar disorder (37.5%) and major depressive disorder (21%) being the most common diagnoses. The mean depression score was 16.6 ± 5, with 48.5% of caregivers experiencing moderate and 23% severe symptoms. The mean anxiety score was 15.4 ± 5.1, and 22.5% reported mild anxiety. Stress levels averaged 13.76 ± 4.16, with 39% reporting moderate stress. Higher depression, anxiety, and stress were significantly associated with older age, lower educational attainment, and caregiving roles - particularly among parents and spouses. However, no significant association was found between illness duration and psychological distress (P > 0.05).

Family caregivers of psychiatric inpatients experience substantial levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. These findings underscore the need for targeted psychological support and culturally appropriate interventions within Iran's healthcare system to address caregiver mental health and enhance overall family well-being.