'I feel like the burden of the world is on my shoulders': a phenomenological qualitative study on the life experiences of adult children of parents with schizophrenia.

Abstract

Background: Studies investigating the experiences of adult children of parents with schizophrenia (ACPS) are limited, and no qualitative study examining this issue in Türkiye has been previously conducted. This study aimed to examine the life experiences of ACPS providing primary care.

Methods: This phenomenological qualitative study was conducted with 14 ACPS in acute clinics of a regional psychiatric hospital in Istanbul between March and August 2024. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step analysis method.

Results: Data analysis revealed five main themes: (1) Difficult beginning of life, (2) Being a caregiver without receiving care, (3) Emotional storm, (4) Disruption of the flow of life, and (5) Coping. The study found that adult children who cared for their parents could not remember their childhood, had to grow up early without parents, and experienced violence. Adult children had difficulty carrying the burden of care, experienced various emotions at the same time, and care disrupted their lives. They were both using adaptive and maladaptive coping methods.

Conclusions: This study determined that ACPS experienced significant childhood stressors and difficulties providing care in adult life that changed the flow of their daily lives while challenging their ability to cope. Psychiatric nurses have essential tasks to support ACPS in coping with difficult life experiences and reducing their care burdens. They should inform ACPS about schizophrenia, regularly monitor their mental health, and implement initiatives that will protect or improve their mental health.

Clinical trial registration: Not applicable.