Contact of caregivers of patients with schizophrenia disorders with psychiatrists: a qualitative study of text messages from families of schizophrenia patients to psychiatrists

Abstract

Background. Caring for chronic psychiatric patients places a complex burden on patients' caregivers. Paying attention to the needs of caregivers based on the cultural conditions of the country in which they live is of particular importance to improve the quality of care. Methods. In this study, 30 caregivers of patients with schizophrenia who were treated for at least two months by a regular psychiatrist joined the study over six months. They contacted the psychiatrist via SMS when their patient was in remission. In total, 1581 text messages were sent during 3 years. All messages were evaluated by three faculty members through the qualitative content analysis method. Results. The results of this study were categorized into training, reporting, and the expression of feelings themes and several codes. Conclusion. Addressing the caregivers needs to take steps forward to improve the effective two-way treatment relationship and prevent the gap between patients, caregivers, and the health care staff. Practical Implications. Paying attention to different dimensions of caregivers' concerns while caring for patients with chronic psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia can have a significant impact on controlling the disease and improving the quality of life of patients and their family members.