Alyafei, Aisha Hamed; (2024) A Qualitative Programme of Research Exploring the Experiences of Family Caregivers of People with Severe Mental Illness in Qatar. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

Caregiving for a family member with severe mental illness (SMI) has been a subject of much recent study in the Western world, with a clear psychological impact and burden on caregivers demonstrated. However, to date very little research has been conducted on the experiences of family caregivers in the Arab world, and none in Qatar in particular, despite families being the main source of caregiving in this context. The purpose of this qualitative research programme was to explore the experiences of family caregivers of people with SMI in Qatar, through exploring the experiences and perspectives of all who are involved with families namely, the family caregivers themselves, the family members with SMI in receipt of care (Service Users), and healthcare professionals and policymakers. This research programme included a systematic review and meta-synthesis which comprehensively examined family caregivers’ experiences by synthesising findings from published qualitative studies in the Middle East. Part two of this programme included an empirical research study. An exploratory qualitative descriptive research design was employed. A total of 34 semi-structured interviews were conducted remotely and face-to-face in Qatar with different key stakeholders: Family caregivers (n=11), service users (n=9), and healthcare professionals and policymakers (n=14). The data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis to identify themes and subthemes. The systematic review identified twelve studies. Family caregivers’ experiences were captured under seven overarching themes. The participants across all studies reported negative consequences of providing care, increased burden and emotional distress, issues with family/marital relationships, and stigmatising behaviours from their communities. In part two, the findings of the empirical study revealed the emotional challenges faced by family caregivers in Qatar when confronted with their loved one’s mental health diagnosis. Many struggled with shock, disbelief, and difficulty accepting the reality. Service users recognised the vital role of caregivers and expressed concerns about their well-being and feelings of guilt. Healthcare professionals and policymakers emphasised the significant support that family caregivers offered.

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