Challenges Experienced by Family Caregivers of Individuals With Severe Mental Illness During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Family caregivers of individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) faced increasing challenges during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic; however, empirical evidence on the general challenges they experienced is lacking. Thus, the purpose of the current integrative review was to explore family caregivers' challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of nine relevant studies were included. Family caregivers experienced greater care burdens, physical and mental health problems, and limited access to health care services due to the pandemic. It is necessary to develop mental health policies and appropriate interventions to help individuals with mental illness and their family caregivers in the event of future crises. [ Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 61 (7), 21–28.]