Prevalence of Depression Among Primary Caregivers of Stroke Survivors in Nigeria

Background: Stroke has a great adverse effect not only on the lives of stroke survivors but also on the informal caregivers, as they provide care ranging from assistance in activities of daily living, leading to a high risk of depression and other psychological morbidities. Objectives: This study explored the prevalence of depression and associated factors among primary caregivers of stroke survivors in Nigeria. Methods: A cross sectional survey on the prevalence of depression among primary caregivers of stroke survivors was conducted at selected hospitals in Maiduguri, Nigeria. A sample of convenience was used to recruit participants in this study. The Beck depression inventory was used to screen for depression. Data form and patients folders were used to obtain socio-demographics and clinical characteristics of participants and stroke survivors. Result: A total of 115 primary caregivers participated, out of which 53% were male and 47% were female. The mean age and overall beck depression inventory score were 30.78 ± 9.66 and 15.42 ± 7.84, respectively. The overall prevalence of depression was found to be 46.1%. Type of stroke (P = 0.03) and post stroke duration (P = 0.02) of stroke survivors cared for was found to be associated with depression among caregivers of stroke survivors. Conclusions: Caring for the patients with stroke presents increased in the psychological impact of caregiving for stroke survivors, it is therefore recommended that information, education, and support should be provided to primary caregivers as they are key in sustaining rehabilitation gains and long term overall well-being of stroke survivors.