Psychiatric manifestation and occurrence of violence toward caregivers

Background: Individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar affective disorder (BAD) are not always violent or make violent responses. However, psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and BAD are associated with violent acts of patients in various forms such as physical, verbal, and emotional violence. The victims to these violent acts by individuals suffering from schizophrenia or BAD are the caregivers most of the times. In addition, the treating team experiences violence by psychiatric patients during their stay in the hospital, especially in the initial days of hospitalization. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross-sectional, descriptive research. A total of 104 caregivers were selected for the study as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Sociodemographic and clinical details were collected through semi-structured interview schedule. Data were collected including sociodemographic details, Family Violence Scale, Family Burden Interview Schedule, and Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale. Results: The study states that caregivers of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or BAD experience overall burden. The experience is associated with being a victim of violence made by the relative suffering with psychiatric disorder. In addition, the events of violence create adverse impact on the psychological well-being of the caregivers, causing stress, anxiety, and depression. Conclusion: The study clearly indicates the need to attend the psychological needs of the caregivers of individuals suffering from schizophrenia or BAD.