‘Whom will I give him to? The difficulty is mine’ : Psychosocial difficulties experienced by care givers of patients with epilepsy in Cape Town, South Africa

Abstract

Epilepsy has been reported as one condition that can cause psychological difficulties and distress to care givers of patients suffering from the condition. This study explored psychological difficulties experienced by lay care givers of patients with epilepsy in an urban township in South Africa. Nine individual in-depth interviews were conducted with lay carers who provide care to their relatives, friends and neighbours who have epilepsy. A thematic data analysis method was used. Some fears, social concerns and worries affecting care giving were reported. Community interventions that promote cultural sensitivity in mental health care and empowerment of these carers are needed.