Experiences and Support Needs of Caregivers of Clients Diagnosed with a Mental Illness Regarding Compliance to Psychotropic Drugs in Malawi

Florence Chidyaonga; Esmie Mkwinda; Jester Jere; Catherine Titanus Mselema; Geldine Chironda

doi:10.25159/2520-5293/20917

Authors

Florence Chidyaonga St John of God University
Esmie Mkwinda St John of God University
Jester Jere St John of God University https://orcid.org/0009-0004-3857-3565
Catherine Titanus Mselema St John of God University https://orcid.org/0009-0004-6681-9841
Geldine Chironda St John of God University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1361-1495

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2520-5293/20917

Keywords:

caregivers, mentally ill diagnosed clients, medication non-adherence, psychotropic drugs, qualitative research

Abstract

Mental illness is one of the chronic illnesses which require support from caregivers throughout the life trajectory of clients. Caregivers meet a lot of psychosocial challenges in the process of caring for clients. Despite experiencing psychosocial challenges, caregivers are not supported in their role. This study explored the experiences and support needs of caregivers of clients diagnosed with mental illness regarding compliance to psychotropic drugs at Mangochi District Hospital in Malawi. The study found that caregiver experiences related to cultural beliefs, false perceptions of the mental well-being, stigma, relapse of the patients’ condition and frequent hospitalisation. In addition, it showed that caregivers lacked knowledge on the importance of drug compliance, resources and accessibility to the services.

Author Biographies

Florence Chidyaonga, St John of God University

Nursing Department

Jester Jere, St John of God University

Nursing department

Catherine Titanus Mselema, St John of God University

Nursing Department

Geldine Chironda, St John of God University

Nursing Department

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