J Korean Acad Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs.  2022 Sep;31(3):293-303. 10.12934/jkpmhn.2022.31.3.293.

Family Members’ Caring Experiences of Schizophrenia Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Deepened Disconnection Due to Distancing

• Shin S
• Joung J

• KMID: 2534225
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12934/jkpmhn.2022.31.3.293

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.

Keyword

Caregivers; COVID-19; Family; Qualitative research; Schizophrenia; COVID-19; 가족; 돌봄; 조현병; 질적연구