Psychosocial Factors Associated with Emotional Exhaustion Among Family Members of Individuals with Opioid Use Disorder: The Mediating Role of Perceived Social Support

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the associations among hopelessness, emotional exhaustion, locus of control, and perceived social support among family members of individuals with opioid use disorder. Method: A total of 138 participants were included in the study from among the relatives of individuals seeking treatment for opioid use disorder. Participants completed the Beck Hopelessness Scale, the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Rotter Internal–External Locus of Control Scale, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and a sociodemographic information form. Results: A positive association was found between external locus of control and hopelessness and emotional exhaustion. Perceived social support partially mediated the association between external locus of control and emotional exhaustion. Significant differences in psychological outcomes were also observed across several demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, including gender, cohabitation with the patient, and income level. Conclusions: Among family members of individuals with opioid use disorder, perceived social support may represent an important psychosocial factor associated with emotional exhaustion. Strengthening social support mechanisms and addressing external locus of control may contribute to supporting the psychological well-being of family members.