Shining a light on caregivers of individuals with depression : a proposed intervention framework

Abstract

Robust research has documented the debilitating effects that depressive disorders have on

individuals. However, much less attention has been given to the caregivers of these individuals. Research has shown that caregivers suffer from physical and psychological problems themselves. Similarly, despite the amount of intervention programmes available for individuals with depression, less effort has been directed to providing caregivers with the necessary skills needed to cope in their daily lives. In our review, we highlight the negative impacts on caregivers as a result of caring for a family member with depressive disorders, namely major depressive disorder (MDD) and dysthymia. More specifically, we will look at the impact of caring for a family member with a depressive disorder on child caregivers, parent caregivers, as well as spousal caregivers. We also review the current available intervention programmes for the different caregivers. Finally, we conclude by proposing a structured intervention framework to be applied in Singapore.