The lived experience of family members of bipolar disorder sufferers

Abstract

Bipolar disorder is not confined to the sufferer's well being but it also affects the family. In order to understand the relatives' personal experiences a qualitative study was adopted. The sample consisted of three males and two females over the age of eighteen; two siblings (brother and sister), a foster father, a husband and a daughter of bipolar sufferers. Data obtained through semi-structured interviews was analyzed via thematic analysis. From the results, it was evident that the carers suffered in various aspects especially in employment, household responsibilities and mental distress. Disappointment with the current mental health services was also heavily conveyed however, the carers had good resilience skills and are until this day doing the best they can to help.