Perceived stress and burden in primary caretakers of substance use disorder

Background: A substance-dependent person in the family affects almost all aspects of the family sphere. This leads to various problems, difficulties, or adverse events which affect the lives of family members and causes an enormous burden on family and caregivers. Aim and Methods: The present study aimed to assess the pattern of burden and stress perceived by the primary caretaker of substance use disorder. Results: Majority of the primary caretakers had moderate-to-severe financial burden, moderate-to-severe disruption in family routine, and moderate-to-severe disruption in family leisure and interaction. There was a mild disruption in the physical and mental health of the caretaker. Majority had moderate subjective burden and moderate-to-severe total family burden. Total perceived stress was moderate to severe in primary caretakers. Moderate-to-severe stress in all spheres was found. Conclusion: The effect of physical health and mental health was mild–moderate in all the primary caretakers. The burden and perceived stress were less in spouses as compared to nonspouses.