Experiences and Support Needs of Caregivers of Clients Diagnosed with a Mental Illness Regarding Compliance to Psychotropic Drugs in Malawi

Mental illness is one of the chronic illnesses which require support from caregivers throughout the life trajectory of clients. Caregivers meet a lot of psychosocial challenges in the process of caring for clients. Despite experiencing psychosocial challenges, caregivers are not supported in their role. This study explored the experiences and support needs of caregivers of clients diagnosed with mental illness regarding compliance to psychotropic drugs at Mangochi District Hospital in Malawi. The study found that caregiver experiences related to cultural beliefs, false perceptions of the mental well-being, stigma, relapse of the patients’ condition and frequent hospitalisation. In addition, it showed that caregivers lacked knowledge on the importance of drug compliance, resources and accessibility to the services.