MENTAL HEALTH OUTCOMES AMONG CAREGIVERS OF INDIVIDUALS WITH MOOD DISORDERS AND NEUROCOGNITIVE DISORDERS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Abstract

Background: Caregivers of individuals with psychiatric illnesses frequently experience psychological distress, particularly depression, anxiety, and stress. Globally, literature affirms the emotional burden faced by caregivers of patients with mood disorders and neurocognitive disorders. However, there is limited comparative research evaluating these mental health outcomes between caregiver groups within the Pakistani context. Given the lack of tailored support systems and prevailing stigma in low-resource settings, it is crucial to assess and address caregiver well-being in such environments.

Objective: To compare depression, anxiety, and stress among caregivers of individuals with mood disorders versus those caring for individuals with neurocognitive disorders in Pakistan.

Methods: A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted using stratified sampling to recruit 240 caregivers: 120 caring for individuals diagnosed with mood disorders and 120 for those with neurocognitive disorders. Inclusion criteria required a caregiving duration of at least one year and a minimum education level of intermediate qualification. Data were collected using the 21-item Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), which utilizes a four-point Likert scale. Ethical clearance was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.

Results: The mean age of participants was 37.55 ± 9.70 years. Caregivers of individuals with mood disorders scored significantly higher on depression (M = 7.65, SD = 5.23), anxiety (M = 7.78, SD = 5.16), and stress (M = 7.67, SD = 5.21) compared to caregivers of individuals with neurocognitive disorders: depression (M = 5.75, SD = 5.00), anxiety (M = 5.58, SD = 3.36), and stress (M = 5.68, SD = 4.96). These differences were statistically significant (p < .01), with moderate effect sizes.

Conclusion: This study highlights the heightened psychological distress among caregivers of individuals with mood disorders and underscores the urgent need for structured support systems, mental health education, and policy reforms to promote caregiver well-being.