Factors related to attitude-associated stigma among caregivers of mentally ill patients in Tanzania

Background: Attitude-associated stigmas towards patients with mental illness affect most patients. However, the factors related to attitude-associated stigma among caregivers remain unknown. This might lead to the disruption of family relationships, low self-esteem, lack of socialization and other adverse effects. Therefore, the current study aimed to determine the associated stigma among caregivers of a patient with a mental illness Methods: A quantitative approach, with a cross-sectional study design, was used, involving two standardized questionnaires: Community Attitudes Towards the Mentally Ill (CAMI) Scale and Modified Consumer Experiences of Stigma Questionnaire (MCESQ), which were used to measure attitudes associated with stigma towards mentally ill patients, experienced stigma and discriminations among caregivers of patient with mental illness. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20, and descriptive and appropriate inferential statistics such as Chi-square test, Pearson correction and logistic regression were used. Results: 422 caregivers living with mentally ill people attending Mirembe National Mental Hospital participated in the study. The overall prevalence of attitude-associated stigma towards mentally ill patients among caregivers was 95.3% in all four dimensions. However, in those who experienced stigma and discrimination, the overall prevalence was 63.3%. Factors that were statistically significantly associated with experiencing stigma and discrimination against mental disorders were age, education, occupation, place of residence, relationship and frequency of admission. Conclusion: Attitudes associated with stigma towards mentally ill patients among caregivers are associated with admissions, relationships and some demographic characteristics. Thus, the current study suggests that social support should be provided to caregivers with a family member having a mental illness. However, future studies with longitudinal study design might provide the risk factors that predispose caregivers to attitude-associated stigma.