1.1 Introduction
The mental health of individuals is not only a personal concern but also significantly impacts their families and communities. The attitudes and knowledge of family members towards mental health care play a crucial role in the management and recovery of mentally ill patients. Mental illnesses, ranging from depression and anxiety to more severe conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, often require ongoing care and support from family members (World Health Organization, 2020).
Family members often serve as primary caregivers, providing emotional support, managing medications, and assisting with daily activities. Their attitudes towards mental illness can greatly influence the patient's treatment adherence and overall well-being. Positive attitudes and informed knowledge can lead to better health outcomes, whereas negative attitudes and misconceptions can result in neglect, discrimination, and poor health management (Lauber et al., 2004).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Mental illness represents a significant public health issue globally, affecting individuals across all age groups and socioeconomic statuses. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in four people will experience a mental or neurological disorder at some point in their lives, with nearly 450 million people currently suffering from such conditions (World Health Organization, 2019). Despite the prevalence of mental health issues, there remains a substantial gap in understanding and managing these conditions, particularly within the family unit.
Family members often play a pivotal role in the care and support of individuals with mental illnesses. Their involvement can significantly impact the patient's recovery and quality of life. However, the knowledge and attitudes of family members towards mental health care are influenced by a variety of factors, including cultural beliefs, stigma, and access to information and resources (Jorm et al., 2006). Stigmatizing attitudes and a lack of understanding can lead to inadequate support, exacerbation of symptoms, and reluctance to seek professional help (Corrigan et al., 2003).
Recent decades have seen a growing emphasis on interventions aimed at improving family members' understanding of mental health issues and enhancing their supportive roles. Research has shown that psychoeducation programs and family interventions can lead to improved treatment outcomes and reduced caregiver burden (Dixon et al., 2001; Pitschel-Walz et al., 2001). Today, ongoing studies continue to explore how family attitudes and knowledge impact the overall management of mental illness. The focus has shifted towards developing culturally sensitive interventions and policies that empower families as partners in mental health care (van der Sanden et al., 2018). Throughout the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st century, research expanded to explore the specific knowledge and attitudes of family members towards mental health care. Studies began to investigate factors such as stigma, cultural beliefs, and the availability of resources in shaping family responses to mental illness (Magliano et al., 2005; Pescosolido et al., 2008).
Previous research has highlighted the importance of education and awareness programs in altering perceptions and improving the knowledge base of family members. Studies have shown that targeted interventions can reduce stigma, enhance understanding of mental illnesses, and improve caregiving practices (Pinfold et al., 2003). Therefore, in Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to examine the knowledge and attitude of family members towards health care of mentally ill patients.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that there is often a lack of understanding about the nature of mental illnesses among family members, leading to difficulties in recognizing symptoms, accessing appropriate treatment, and supporting recovery (Pinfold et al., 2003). Also, family members frequently experience significant emotional, financial, and social burden when caring for mentally ill relatives, exacerbated by inadequate support systems and resources (Awad & Voruganti, 2008).
Furthermore, many family members hold stigmatizing beliefs and misconceptions about mental illness, which can hinder effective care and support for their loved ones (Corrigan & Watson, 2002). Additionally, stigma associated with mental illness can deter family members from seeking professional help or disclosing their relative's condition to others, delaying effective treatment (Corrigan et al., 2003).
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to examine the Knowledge and Attitude of Family Members towards Health Care of Mentally ill Patients. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To identify the demographic, cultural, and socio-economic factors that influence the knowledge and attitudes of family members towards mental health care;
- To evaluate the effectiveness of implemented interventions in changing knowledge and attitudes and in improving care giving outcomes;
- To assess the current level of knowledge that family members have about various mental illnesses, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options;
- To evaluate the attitudes of family members towards mental illness and those who suffer from it, including any stigmatizing beliefs and misconceptions; and
- To assess the emotional, financial, and social burdens experienced by family members caring for mentally ill patients and how these are impacted by their knowledge and attitudes.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What are the demographic, cultural, and socio-economic factors that influence the knowledge and attitudes of family members towards mental health care?
- How effective are the implemented interventions in changing knowledge and attitudes and in improving care giving outcomes?
- What is the current level of knowledge that family members have about various mental illnesses?
- What are the attitudes of family members towards mental illness and those who suffer from it, including any stigmatizing beliefs and misconceptions?
- What are the emotional, financial, and social burdens experienced by family members caring for mentally ill patients and how these are impacted by their knowledge and attitudes?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: Demographic factors do not significantly influence the knowledge and attitudes of family members towards mental health care.
- H1: Demographic factors such as age, gender, education level, and income significantly influence the knowledge and attitudes of family members towards mental health care.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Family members do not hold stigmatizing attitudes towards mental illness, or these attitudes do not significantly impact their care giving practices.
- H1: Family members hold stigmatizing attitudes towards mental illness, which negatively impact their care giving practices.
1.7 Significance of Study
The findings from this study have the potential to influence public health policies and mental health care practices. By providing evidence-based recommendations, the study can contribute to the creation of more inclusive and comprehensive mental health care systems that recognize and integrate the crucial role of families.
Moreover, the study highlights the emotional, financial, and social burdens faced by family members caring for mentally ill relatives. Recognizing these challenges can inform the development of resources and support mechanisms that alleviate caregiver strain, promoting more sustainable and effective caregiving practices.
Additionally, the study can promote cultural sensitivity in mental health care by identifying how cultural beliefs and practices impact family attitudes and knowledge. This can lead to the development of culturally tailored interventions that respect and address the diverse needs of different communities.
Finally, the findings of this research study will provide information on the general attitude of Nigerians particularly health workers towards the mentally sick. It will also increase the knowledge of people on mental illness in general and correct all misconceptions about the disease and prompt governments and non-governmental agencies efforts in making more readily available resources for treatment facilities and rehabilitation of mentally ill persons.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the knowledge and attitude of family members towards health care of mentally ill patients using Federal Psychiatric Hospital Calabar, Cross River State as a case study.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Establishment Policies: Establishment policies posed a serious limitation as most staffs are not ready to release information needed for this project work. There were lots of information needed from the staffs of this establishment to enhance the study which took them time to release or they did not release at all for security purposes, hence the scope was reduced.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Lack of Initial Cooperation from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Knowledge:
Knowledge in this context refers to the understanding and awareness that family members have about mental illnesses, including symptoms, treatment options, and the overall mental health care system. It encompasses factual information, beliefs, and insights gained through education and experience.
Attitude:
Attitude refers to the feelings, beliefs, and predispositions that family members hold towards mentally ill patients and their care. It includes emotional responses, stigma, and the willingness to support or avoid interaction with individuals experiencing mental health issues.
Family Members:
Family members are individuals who are related by blood, marriage, or adoption to the patient with mental illness. They often play a crucial role in providing emotional, social, and sometimes financial support to the patient.
Health Care:
Health care refers to the organized provision of medical services to maintain or improve physical and mental health. in the context of mentally ill patients, it includes diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and preventive measures.
Mental Illness:
Mental illness is a condition that affects a person's thinking, feeling, behavior, or mood. These conditions can significantly impact day-to-day living and may require medical intervention. Common examples include depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.
