Exploratory study: The lived experiences of caregivers of individuals diagnosed with Schizophrenia in Windhoek, Namibia

The objective of this research was to explore the lived experiences of caregivers of people diagnosed with schizophrenia to understand the dynamics within these specific family settings. A qualitative approach with a systems theory lens was applied. A purposive sampling method was utilised to select a sample size of eight participants from the Windhoek Central Hospital’s Mental Health Unit, and face-to-face in-depth interviews were conducted with the individuals who met the criteria. Furthermore, thematic analysis was applied to identify prominent themes in the data. Key findings of the study suggested that there was a lack of communication between mental health workers and caregivers; information and knowledge on schizophrenia was not disseminated to caregivers. Additionally, the caregivers experienced financial and social burden in their caregiving roles, which was further exacerbated by inadequate social support that exist at a broader level. The study recommended that mental health workers take a proactive inclusive approach in educating the caregivers and their relatives with schizophrenia about the diagnosis, treatment and care of the illness. Furthermore, a need for additional services, such as community-based mental health centres for accessibility, support groups, as well as financial aid was identified to improve the quality of life of the caregivers.

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Namibia

Year dc:date.issued

2022

Author dc:creator

• /Oaes, Justine

• Schizophrenia
• Mental health
• Community-based mental health centres

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11070/3228

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.unam.edu.na:11070/3228