Family Members’ Caring Experiences of Schizophrenia Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Deepened Disconnection Due to Distancing
10.12934/jkpmhn.2022.31.3.293
- Author:
Soyoung SHIN
1
;
Jaewon JOUNG
Author Information
1. Graduate Student, College of Nursing, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Journal of Korean Academy of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
2022;31(3):293-303
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Purpose:The purpose of this study was to explore family members’ caring experiences of schizophrenia patients during COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods:Seventeen family caregivers participated in this study. Focus group and individual interviews were conducted from February to March 2022. Content analysis was applied for the data analysis.
Results:Three categories were derived. First, healthcare aspects with three subcategories: increased difficulties in hospitalization process, complete separation of mental health inpatient, and difficulties in implementing quarantine guidelines. Second, rehabilitation aspects with three subcategories: broken daily lives, pity for lost recovery chance, a ruled out life, and nothing different from the pre-pandemic period. Finally, familial aspects with three subcategories: necessity of reorganizing medical system, necessity of national-led care system, and necessity of face-to-face programs.
Conclusion:Family members’ of schizophrenia patients had various challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study provides evidence for mental health professionals to expand their perspectives of families of schizophrenia during possible infectious disease disasters in the future.
