PSYCHO-SOCIAL BURDEN AMONG CAREGIVERS OF CHRONICALLY ILL PATIENTS ADMITTED IN SKIMS JVC HOSPITAL BEMINA SRINAGAR.

Abstract: Psycho social burden is described as an immoderate response to pressure as a result of one's surroundings that can be characterized by emotional and bodily exhaustion, coupled with a feel of frustration and failure. The WHO states caregiver burden as “the emotional, physical, financial demands and responsibilities of an individual's illness that are placed on the family members, friends, or other individuals involved with the individual outside the health-care system. Aim: This study aims to assess the level of psycho-social burden among caregivers of chronically ill patients admitted in SKIMS JVC, Bemina Srinagar. Methodology: In accordance with the nature of the research problem, a quantitative approach was used to assess the level of psycho-social burden among care givers of chronically ill patients admitted in skims JVC hospital Bemina Srinagar. Non-experimental descriptive research design was used. Data collection took place at SKIMS JVC Bemina and data was collected by using Zarit burden interview. Sample comprised of 60 participants and the sampling technique used was Non-randomized convenient sampling. Key Findings: The findings of the study revealed that majority of caregivers had “moderate-severe burden” (45.0%), followed by “mild to moderate’’ 40% and ‘little or no burden”(8.3 %).and “severe burden” (6.7%) and also there is significant association of psycho-social burden with demographic variable (age). Conclusion: The study concluded that caregivers of chronically ill patients experience a high level of psycho-social burden that affects their overall health adversely. The study suggests that there is a need for interventions to reduce the burden and improve the psycho-social aspect of health of the caregivers, such as providing respite care, counseling, education, and social support. Keywords: Assess, psycho-social burden, caregivers.