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Psychological status and coping styles of caregivers of individuals with intellectual disability and psychiatric illness
Author(s) -
Panicker Anuja S.,
Ramesh Sonali
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.056
H-Index - 63
eISSN - 1468-3148
pISSN - 1360-2322
DOI - 10.1111/jar.12496
Subject(s) - coping (psychology) , anxiety , intellectual disability , psychology , clinical psychology , psychiatry , mental health
Background The psychological status of caregivers of individuals with intellectual disability and psychiatric illness (PI) is important for effective management. The aim of this study was to examine the psychological status and its relationship with coping styles among these caregivers. Materials & Methods Caregivers ( N = 80) of individuals with intellectual disability ( n = 40) and PI ( n = 40) were administered a socio‐demographic questionnaire, depression, anxiety and stress scale and COPE Inventory. Results Caregivers experienced depression, anxiety and stress symptoms. These symptoms were found to be significantly higher among caregivers of individuals with intellectual disability than those with PI. The most common coping style used was religious coping. Use of positive reinterpretation and growth was associated with lower levels of depression and stress symptoms. Conclusion Caregivers’ mental health plays an important role in the quality of care delivery and outcome. Use of appropriate coping styles can reduce the impact of these symptoms.