Predictors of Burden in Families of Youth Experiencing Mental Health and/or Addiction Concerns in Ontario, Canada

Abstract

This study explored factors impacting caregiver burden (CB) in families of youth with mental health and/or addiction (MHA) issues through a cross-sectional survey of Ontario caregivers (n = 259). Zero-order correlations explored caregiver, youth, and service factors and CB. Regressions explored contributions of significant factors to the variance in CB. Barriers to services, number of youth symptoms, and waitlist status significantly predicted CB. The specific barriers that were significantly associated with CB were service costs, service availability, and youth motivation to participate in services. Tailoring interventions and policies to reduce service waitlists and barriers may alleviate CB and improve youth and family outcomes.