Assessment of Quality of Life among Caregivers of Patients with Bipolar Disorder at Al-Azhar University Hospital, New Damietta

Background: Bipolar disorder [BD] is a pathological mood illness characterized by manic, depressed, and occasionally markedly mixed states. The effects of BD, like those of other chronic illnesses, are not limited to the patient; they frequently influence the quality of life [QoL] of those who are close to the patient, particularly their direct caregivers. Aim and objectives: To assess the QoL among caregivers of patients with BD and to identify factors influencing their QoL. Patients and methods: This a cross-sectional study was conducted among 110 caregivers of patients with BD, routinely followed at the Psychiatry Department over a 12-month period, were recruited using a convenient sampling technique. Data were collected on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of both caregivers and patients. Patient assessment included DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale [HDRS], and the Young Mania Rating Scale [YMRS]. Caregiver QoL was measured using the Arabic version of the PCASEE QoL scale. Results: The mean age of the caregivers was [37.4 ± 13.11] years, most of them were female [75.5%] as a wife, daughters, and sisters [22.7%, 20.9%, and 20%, respectively]. The employed caregivers and those not living with the patient reported better QoL [P = 0.003 and P = 0.045, respectively]. There was a significant negative correlation between PCASEE score and caregiver age [r = -0.45, P = 0.024], young mania [r = -0.87, P < 0.001], and illness duration [r = -0.623, P = 0.03]. Conclusions: Caregiver well-being in the context of BD is shaped by a complex interplay between clinical symptom severity and social circumstances. Interventions should not only address the management of patient symptoms but also target social and economic support for caregivers, particularly those living with the patient or facing employment challenges.