DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY IN PRIMARY CAREGIVERS OF PATIENTS WITH SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Main Article Content
Keywords
Depression, Anxiety, Caregivers, Substance Abuse, Pakistan, Mental Health.
Abstract
Introduction: Primary caregivers of people with substance abuse problems often suffer major psychological burdens, which can include depression and anxiety. Deepening the challenge is that in Pakistan, caregivers are stigmatized, face limited support, and experience emotional strain, all under the additional pressure of cultural expectations. Caregivers of substance users are being highlighted for the high rates of psychological distress, against a backdrop of societal pressure, with limited mental health services.
Objective: To study the commonness and intensity of depression and anxiety in those caring for patients with substance use disorders and discover factors related to their psychosocial health.
Materials and Method: A cross-sectional survey was carried out at Department of Psychiatry, Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar, Pakistan, from February, 2024 to July, 2024 and 150 caregivers took part. The PHQ-9 and GAD-7 tests measured how much the subjects were depressed or anxious. SPSS version 25 was used to analyze the information, and chi-square tests were performed to find relationships.
Results: Of 150 caregivers, 68% reported depression (27% mild, 25% moderate, 16% severe) and 60% experienced anxiety (21% mild, 24% moderate, 15% severe). Female gender, older age, low education, unemployment, prolonged caregiving, and cohabitation were linked to higher distress.
Conclusion: Caregivers face significant mental health challenges, necessitating targeted interventions like counseling and support programs.
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Dr Muhammad Saeed Khan
Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar, Pakistan
Dr Mustajab Ahmad
Senior Registrar, Department of Neurology, Sughra Shafi Medical Complex/ Sahara Medical College Narowal, Pakistan
Dr Nazir Ahmed
Assistant Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Sughra Shafi Medical Complex / Sahara Medical College Narowal, Pakistan
Dr Husnain Hashim
Consultant Neurologist and Stroke Specialist, Assistant Professor, Neurology Department Fauji Foundation Hospital Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Dr Sher Ayub Dawar
Assistant Professor Psychiatry Department KGN TH /Bannu Medical College Bannu, Pakistan
Dr Muhammad Tariq
Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Sahara Medical College Narowal, Pakistan