A Psychoeducational Intervention for Reducing Psychological Distress and Caregiver Burnout Among Family Caregivers of Individuals With Bipolar Disorder

This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a structured psychoeducational intervention designed for family caregivers of individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. Family caregivers often experience high levels of psychological distress and caregiver burden due to the long-term demands of caregiving. The intervention is intended to improve caregivers' knowledge about Bipolar Disorder, enhance coping skills, promote self-care, and strengthen strategies for managing caregiving challenges. Psychological distress and caregiver burden will be assessed before and after the intervention using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) and the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI-22). The findings will help determine whether this intervention is feasible and beneficial for caregivers in the Pakistani context.

Inclusion Criteria: Primary family caregiver of an individual diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder by a qualified psychiatrist. Aged between 25 and 40 years. Providing direct care to the patient for at least one year. Able to read, understand, and communicate in Urdu. Willing and able to provide written informed consent. Willing to participate in all psychoeducational intervention sessions and study assessments. Exclusion Criteria: Professional, paid, or temporary caregivers. Caregivers currently receiving structured psychotherapy or psychological intervention for psychological distress or caregiver burden. Individuals with severe psychiatric disorders, cognitive impairment, or neurological conditions that may interfere with participation or completion of assessments. Caregivers who are unable or unwilling to complete the intervention sessions or study questionnaires. Caregivers who withdraw consent at any stage of the study.