Can family burden in mental illness be reduced?: Results of a survey

Objective: To determine quantity and predictors of the subjectively perceived reduction of family burden in mental illness and the respective readiness to reduce family burden in the 2 weeks before hospitalization of the affected. Methods: The "Interview for Measuring the Burden on the Family" was conducted with 64 relatives of mentally ill, members of a self-help group. Correlations between the subjectively perceived reduction of burden, the respective readiness, and the need for practical help were calculated. A multiple regression analysis was carried out on the subjectively perceived reduction of family burden. Results: 81% of the interviewees indicated that some burden could be reduced. Two thirds argued that a small part or half of the burden could be diminished. But delegation of half or more of the burden does not necessarily lead to a reduction. Besides the possibility the respective readiness must also be present. Predictors of the subjectively perceived reduction of burden are related to the symptomatology of the affected (threatened or realized leaving of a family member, additional work in the household that the affected did before hospitalization). Autoaggression of the affected is negatively influencing reduction of burden. Conclusions: Concrete help cannot reduce every burden. Nevertheless, concrete possibilities of disburdening such as outpatient treatment, transient care in an acute day hospital or residence in a crisis apartment must be offered to relatives. Apart from burden due to symptoms, emotions burden the relationship between affected and their relatives. Therefore, professionals must be aware of possibilities of emotional disburdening.