Abstract:
Previous studies have investigated caregiving within the family unit when a family
member takes the role of the primary caregiver. These caregivers often experience
many physical, emotional and psychological challenges such as anxiety, depression
and stress. The present study sought to explore lived experiences of home-based
caregivers of people living with chronic mental illness in Ga-Dikgale, Limpopo Province,
South Africa. Eight caregivers of family members with chronic mental illness were
sampled from Ga-Dikgale, Limpopo Province, South Africa, and requested to participate
in the study. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured, individual face-toface
interviews, and analysed using Hycner’s phenomenological explication process.
The following themes were extracted from participants’ narratives. The role of homebased
caregivers and their understanding of mental illness; challenges that they
encountered; their coping strategies; support systems available for them; their
psychological well-being; and suggestions for improvement. The study is concluded by,
among others, recommending a collaborative approach amongst the Department of
Health, NGOs and community healthcare services to facilitate support for home-based
caregivers.
