Affiliation:
1. Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India
2. Department of Psychiatry, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Background Family caregivers of individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) face significant challenges that can impact their well-being, coping abilities, and cognitive functioning. However, the empowerment of these caregivers often goes unnoticed, highlighting the need for supportive interventions. Purpose To develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a one-on-one intervention program for family caregivers of SUD patients using pre-test and post-test assessments. Methods A pilot study was conducted using a randomized controlled trial design with 40 family caregivers of individuals with SUD. Through a lottery method, participants were randomly assigned to either the control or experimental groups, with each group consisting of 20 caregivers. The intervention program consisted of 12 one-on-one sessions. Pre-test and post-test assessments utilized the Ryff Psychological Well-being Scale, Ways of Coping, revised by Lazarus and Folkman, the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, and the Kingston Caregiver Stress Scale. Descriptive and inferential statistics were analyzed using SPSS software. Results Significant differences were observed between the control and experimental groups in psychological well-being, cognitive functioning, coping, anxiety, and stress ( p < .01). The one-on-one intervention program significantly improved well-being and coping skills while reducing anxiety and stress levels. Consequently, the program empowered caregivers and enhanced their psychological resilience in the caregiving process. Conclusion The findings support the effectiveness of the one-on-one intervention program in enhancing the well-being, coping skills, cognitive functioning, anxiety, and stress levels of family caregivers of individuals with SUD. This intervention program has the potential to empower caregivers and enable them to better cope with the challenges they face in providing care.