Abstract
People with mental illnesses are marginalized and socially excluded from many aspects of community life. Mentally ill patients and their family members/caregivers often face significant barriers when dealing with their illnesses. The goal of this study was to identify the factors affecting re-hospitalization and types of care given by the families. The sample includes selected psychiatric patients (Male-10, Female-10) from 20 different families. Primary data were obtained using semi-structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews with the caregivers. Hospital records, observation and case studies were used as secondary information. Family interventions were very much evident and proved to be very effective in reducing the impact of illness on the patient and family. Out of these 20 families, 13 patients were identified with supportive caregivers through the follow up. Case work activities revealed that, family members were aware of patients’ illness behavior and psycho-social changes.
Key words: Mental illness, re-hospitalization, marginalized.
