A Psychoeducational Intervention for Reducing Psychological Distress and Caregiver Burnout Among Family Caregivers of Individuals With Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder is a chronic psychiatric condition characterized by recurrent episodes of mania, hypomania, and depression. Family caregivers play a central role in supporting individuals with Bipolar Disorder; however, prolonged caregiving responsibilities often result in increased psychological distress, emotional exhaustion, and caregiver burden. In Pakistan, limited structured psychoeducational programs are available to support family caregivers despite their significant role in patient care.

This study is a feasibility trial designed to examine the implementation and preliminary effectiveness of a structured psychoeducational intervention for family caregivers of individuals with Bipolar Disorder. The intervention consists of therapist-led sessions focusing on increasing caregivers' understanding of Bipolar Disorder, symptom recognition, treatment adherence, relapse prevention, communication skills, stress management, coping strategies, problem-solving, and self-care practices.

Primary outcomes include psychological distress and caregiver burden, measured using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) and the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI-22), respectively. Participants will complete these measures before the intervention and after completing the psychoeducational program. The study will evaluate the feasibility of recruitment, participant retention, intervention delivery, and participant acceptability, while also examining preliminary changes in caregiver psychological distress and burden following the intervention.

The findings are expected to contribute to the development of culturally appropriate caregiver support programs and provide evidence for integrating psychoeducational interventions into mental health services for families of individuals with Bipolar Disorder in Pakistan.

Inclusion criteria

Primary family caregiver of an individual diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder by a qualified psychiatrist.

Aged between 25 and 40 years. Providing direct care to the patient for at least one year. Able to read, understand, and communicate in Urdu. Willing and able to provide written informed consent. Willing to participate in all psychoeducational intervention sessions and study assessments.

Exclusion criteria

Professional, paid, or temporary caregivers. Caregivers currently receiving structured psychotherapy or psychological intervention for psychological distress or caregiver burden.

Individuals with severe psychiatric disorders, cognitive impairment, or neurological conditions that may interfere with participation or completion of assessments.

Caregivers who are unable or unwilling to complete the intervention sessions or study questionnaires.

Caregivers who withdraw consent at any stage of the study.