Who will take care of him once we die? Needs of family caregivers of long-stay patients in a tertiary care psychiatric hospital in India: A qualitative study

ABSTRACT Background: A sizeable number of patients continue to stay in mental health hospitals despite progressive legislations, policies, and programs. This research explores needs of the family caregivers with regard to rehabilitation and community reintegration of long-stay patients (LSPs) residing at a tertiary mental health hospital. Methodology: Fifteen family caregivers of LSPs residing at a psychiatric closed ward for a minimum of 2 months and more were considered for the study using convenience sampling method. Results: Thematic analysis highlighted main themes such as: Iisolation of patients and incomplete recovery, what after us – concerns of elderly caregivers, lack of government-initiated rehabilitation services and stigmatization, and health needs of the caregivers, and burnout. Conclusion: This study has explored and identified needs, barriers, and challenges in reintegration of patients in community from family caregivers’ perspective.