Psychological Distress, Quality of Life and Burden among Caregivers of Patients with Traumatic Central Nervous System Injuries: A Cross-sectional Study
Abstract
Introduction: Caregivers of individuals with traumatic Central Nervous System (CNS) conditions face significant physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. These demands often compromise their well-being and disrupt the caregiving process, leading to adverse outcomes. Aim: To assess the levels of burden, Quality of Life (QoL), anxiety, depression, and stress among primary caregivers of patients with traumatic CNS conditions. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted at KLE’s Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Belagavi, Karnataka, India, from October 2024 to March 2025. A total of 42 primary caregivers were recruited using a convenience sampling method based on a pre-calculated sample size. Eligible participants were required to be aged ≥18 years and caring for patients with acute traumatic CNS conditions without financial compensation. Anxiety, depression, and stress were measured using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21); caregiver burden with Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI); and QoL with Family Caregiver Specific Quality of Life Scale (FAMQOL). Demographic data (age, gender, caregiver-patient relationship) were collected. Statistical analysis was performed in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) v 29.0.10 using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation, with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: The sample included more male than female caregivers. The majority exhibited extremely severe levels of depression and anxiety, while 7 (16.7%) reported extremely severe stress. Higher DASS-21 scores were significantly associated with lower FAMQOL scores and higher ZBI scores (p<0.001), indicating that increased psychological distress was correlated with a decrease in QoL and increased burden. Conclusion: Caregivers of patients with traumatic CNS conditions experience substantial psychological distress, diminished QoL, and heightened burdens. These findings emphasise the importance of recognising and responding to the psychological challenges and unmet needs of this vulnerable population.