Emotional burden and psychological distress in caregivers of patients with obsessive compulsive disorder

Objective: To explore the prevalence and association of emotional burden with anxiety, depression, and stress among caregivers of patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Southern Punjab, Pakistan. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from May to December 2022 at Nishtar Medical University and hospital, Multan, Districts Head Quarters Hospital Khanewal and D.G Khan Teaching Hospital in Southern Punjab. A total of 220 caregivers (males: 89; females: 131) aged 18–60 years were recruited using a convenient sampling method. Sociodemographic data and caregiver burden were assessed using Zarit Burden Interview and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS-21. Results: Most caregivers (74.5%) belonged to nuclear families, and 68.2% resided in urban areas. Caregiver burden was significant, with 74.5% experiencing severe levels and 21.4% reporting moderate levels. Anxiety was the most severe distress, with 76.8% experiencing severe to extremely severe levels, followed by moderate depression (57.7%) and stress, predominantly mild (48.2%) to moderate (44.5%). Caregiver burden correlated positively with anxiety (r = 0.380, p < 0.01) and depression (r = 0.340, p < 0.05) but not with stress (r = 0.048). Female caregivers reported slightly lower anxiety and depression scores compared to males. Mothers were the most common caregivers (57.7%), and 56.8% had cared for the patient for over 5 years, highlighting long-term caregiving challenges. Conclusion: Caregivers of OCD patients in Southern Punjab, especially females, face significant emotional and psychological burdens. Severe anxiety, depression, and stress are common, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to support their mental health.