Perceived Stress and Burnout Among Caregivers of Patients with Bipolar Disorder: A Quantitative Study of Pakistani Cohorts

Abstract

The objective of this study is to examine the association between perceived stress and burnout among caregivers in Pakistan who care for patients with Bipolar Disorder. Using a cross sectional correlational design and purposive sampling, data were collected from 200 participants (male = 105, female = 95), with a mean age of 38.17 years and a standard deviation of 9.66. The results revealed a significant positive association between burnout and perceived stress. Two instruments were used to measure burnout and perceived stress: the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Correlational analysis showed a positive and significant relationship between burnout and perceived stress. An independent samples t-test indicated that burnout and perceived stress were higher among female caregivers compared to male caregivers. The findings were discussed about existing literature, and practical recommendations were provided to enhance caregiver well-being. These include offering counselling services, raising awareness about Bipolar Disorder, encouraging peer support networks, promoting access to professional mental health care, providing guidance on effective caregiving strategies, and emphasizing the importance of establishing government-run programs and support groups for caregivers of individuals with Bipolar Disorder.