Coping among caregivers of patients suffering from bipolar affective disorder

Introduction: Burden caused by bipolar affective disorder (BPAD) upon families and caregivers is a matter of increasing clinical concern. Stressors are coped with based on how significant they are for those involved. Coping means trying to overcome that which is causing stress and may refocus the significance associated with the difficulties, guide the individual's life, and keep him/her physically, psychologically, and socially healthy. Aims and Objectives: The aim and objective of the study was to explore ways of coping by caregivers of patients suffering from BPAD. Materials and Methods: The sample comprised 100 caregivers of 100 patients either outpatients or inpatients at the Department of Psychiatry, SKIMS, Bemina, Srinagar, diagnosed with BPAD using International Classification of Diseases, tenth revision. Results: Majority of caregivers were from the age group of 40–49 years, males, married, and with no formal education. In our study, majority of caregivers were from the age group of 40–49 years, males, unmarried, and with no formal education. Majority of caregivers had been providing care to the patients for the duration of 1–5 years. Majority of caregivers were spouses of the patients. The most common method of coping was consulting doctors, talking to friends/family, and seeking practical help. Majority of caregivers used avoidance, seeking social support, and problem-focused strategies. Collusion strategy was also frequently used. Coercion strategy was used less frequently. Conclusions: Majority of caregivers used avoidance, seeking social support, and problem-focused strategies. Collusion strategy was also frequently used. Coercion strategy was used less frequently. We need to better understand caregivers' views and personal perceptions of the stresses and demands arising from caring for someone with bipolar affective disorder. Family interventions are needed to increase the coping ability of caregivers of the patients.