Egyptian families caring for a relative with mental illness in Australia

Abstract

The meaning of caregiving for a relative with mental illness has been explored in many research studies: however, there is a lack of studies on the caregiving experience within the Egyptian culture. This study aimed at getting closer to Egyptian families caring for a relative with mental illness in Australia in order to reveal how these families live and cope with mental illness, their attitudes, their beliefs and practices and how the experience affected them. Qualitative hermeneutic phenomenology informed by the work of Heidegger was used. Seven participants from Egyptian background, caring for a relative with mental illness participated and all interviews were audio-taped. Interviews were conducted in the Arabic language and were then translated and transcribed into English. All interviews were compared and five common themes were identified. Why did it happen?: How do I protect my loved ones?: What has it done to me?: What has it done to us?: and How do I survive? Findings of the study have the potential to raise health care professionals' awareness of the needs of Egyptian families, their beliefs, values and coping with mental illness. Strengths and limitations of the study are also presented to inform future research

Date of Award	2003
Original language	English