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Research Article

Assessment of Mental Health Literacy Among Home Caregivers of Persons Living with Mental Illness

Authors

  • Vivian Ukamaka Nwokedi Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria https://orcid.org/0009-0008-0236-7101

    viviannwokedi250@gmail.com

  • Amber Otibhor Omoike Department of Pharmacy, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH), Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria https://orcid.org/0009-0007-2094-864X
  • Negasi Tsegay Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jackson State University, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
  • Emelda Amarachi Egwuatu Emergency Care, General Hospital Haql, Tabuk Region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
  • Wonderful Oluwatoyin Anosike Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, England https://orcid.org/0009-0008-8587-3156
  • Ibraheem Bolaji Abdulganeey School of Education, Harvard University, MA, USA
  • Ikuforiji David Ayobami Department of Accident and Emergency, State Hospital, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Nigeria
  • Ndidiamaka Christiana Ani Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, OH, USA

Abstract

Mental health has gained increasing global attention due to its growing prevalence and impact on individuals, families, and communities. Caregivers play a significant role in supporting individuals with mental illness, and their mental health literacy is crucial for providing effective care. However, caregivers’ mental health literacy has often been overlooked, and research has primarily focused on the general population or professionals. This study addresses this gap by assessing the mental health literacy among caregivers of patients living with mental illness. This study aimed to assess the mental health literacy among caregivers of patients living with mental illness, determine their perceptions about causes of mental illness, people living with mental illness, attitude towards people living with mental illness, and care and management of mental illness. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 356 caregivers of mentally ill patients attending a mental health clinic in Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data, which was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study found that while some caregivers held positive perceptions about mental illness, others exhibited stigmatizing views. Positively, a significant proportion of participants attributed mental illness to substance abuse (94.01%) and genetic inheritance (78.63%), and many believed that anyone can suffer from mental illness (88.89%) and that mentally ill persons can work (68.94%).  However, negative perceptions were also evident, with 14.53% of participants blaming people with mental illness for their condition, 37.03% believing they should not be allowed to make decisions, and 54.41% thinking they should be institutionalized. These findings highlight areas where mental health literacy among caregivers can be improved. The study reveals significant gaps in mental health literacy among caregivers of individuals with mental illness. While a large majority correctly identified causes such as substance abuse (94.01%), genetic inheritance (78.63%), and brain disease (88.89%), misconceptions persist, with 37.03% believing mentally ill individuals should not make decisions. A notable proportion also expressed reluctance toward social integration, with 31.05% viewing mentally ill persons as dangerous. These findings underscore the urgent need for tailored educational programs that enhance caregivers’ understanding and reduce stigma. An inclusive care model that supports both patients and caregivers can significantly improve care outcomes and foster better community engagement in mental health support.

Keywords:

Caregivers Home Caregivers Mental Health Mental Health Literacy Mental Illness Perceptions

Article information

Journal

Journal of Medical Science, Biology, and Chemistry

Volume (Issue)

2(2), (2025)

Pages

27-36

Published

12-07-2025

How to Cite

Nwokedi, V. U., Omoike, A. O., Tsegay, N., Egwuatu, E. A., Anosike, W. O., Abdulganeey, I. B., Ayobami, I. D., & Ani, N. C. (2025). Assessment of Mental Health Literacy Among Home Caregivers of Persons Living with Mental Illness. Journal of Medical Science, Biology, and Chemistry, 2(2), 27-36. https://doi.org/10.69739/jmsbc.v2i2.683

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