Perception of Depression and Treatment Need amongst the Family Caregivers of Persons Experiencing Depression

Abstract Background: Family caregivers play a major role in the treatment and management of persons experiencing depression. Their perception of depression and therapy may significantly influence their participation in the caregiving process. This study, therefore, intends to explore their perception of depression and its treatment to gain insight regarding their involvement in the caregiving of persons experiencing depression. Methods: The qualitative phenomenological study was conducted amongst the family caregivers of persons experiencing depression under treatment in a specialised mental health institute in India. In-depth interviews were conducted by the researcher to gather qualitative data from participants recruited through purposive sampling. A thematic analysis was done to analyze the collected data. Results: Most of the family caregivers perceived depression as a state of worry and that one’s habit of worrying was behind the causation of the disorder. Most of them also thought persons experiencing depression themselves had significant responsibilities in the management of the disorder, like, engaging in recreational activities and stop worrying; whereas, family caregivers’ responsibilities were limited mostly in supporting the persons experiencing depression in medication compliance and maintaining their daily activities. Conclusion: The findings call for a strong need for healthcare providers to educate the family caregivers on the causes and nature of the disorder, as well as their responsibilities in the management of persons experiencing depression.