Psychoeducational Needs of Sundanese Indonesian Family Caregivers Caring for Persons with Schizophrenia During the Maintenance Phase: A Descriptive Qualitative Study

Imas Rafiyah,1,2 Suryani Suryani,1 Laili Rahayuwati,3 Wandee Suttharangsee,4 Nur Oktavia Hidayati1 1Department of Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, West Java, Indonesia; 2Doctoral Study Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, West Java, Indonesia; 3Department of Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, West Java, Indonesia; 4Education and Innovative Learning Academy, Prince of Songkla University, Hatyai, Songkhla, ThailandCorrespondence: Imas Rafiyah, Department of Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jl Raya Ir. Soekarno Km 21, Jatinangor, Sumedang, West Java, 45363, Indonesia, Tel +62 81280050455, Fax +62 22 7795596, Email [email protected]: Family caregivers of persons with schizophrenia often face significant challenges, including stress and negative caregiving experiences. Psychoeducation is an effective nursing intervention to support caregivers, yet the specific needs of Sundanese family caregivers in Indonesia remain unexplored.Purpose: This study aimed to explore the psychoeducational needs of Sundanese Indonesian family caregivers caring for Persons with schizophrenia during the maintenance phase.Patients and Methods: A descriptive qualitative design was employed. Participants were purposively sampled from family caregivers in Soreang District, Bandung Regency, until data saturation was reached (n=20). Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data were analyzed using inductive content analysis.Results: Seven key main categories emerged: 1) the required psychoeducational content; 2) psychoeducation delivered by healthcare professionals in collaboration with community leaders; 3) the recipients of psychoeducation involve the primary decision-makers within the family; 4) psychoeducation is administered directly; 5) books as a medium for psychoeducation; 6) appropriate timing for implementing psychoeducation; and 7) accessible locations for carrying out the psychoeducation.Conclusion: The findings highlight culturally tailored psychoeducational needs for Sundanese caregivers, emphasizing the importance of involving community leaders and family structures. These insights can inform mental health programs to reduce caregiver burden and improve outcomes for persons with schizophrenia.Keywords: maintenance phase, psychoeducational needs, Sundanese family caregivers, schizophrenia