Exploring the experience of relatives living with individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia in Oman: A qualitative study: A qualitative study

Introduction
Relatives of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia often experience positive and negative impacts. Much of the literature on family experience with schizophrenia comes from western culture, and less is known about Arabic speaking countries. There has been no previous attempt to qualitatively investigate the lived experience of relatives of hospitalized patients with schizophrenia in the Arab world.

Aim
To explore the experience and needs of Omani relatives of hospitalized patients diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Method
Qualitative semi-structured interviews with twenty relatives of hospitalized patients from Oman. The interviews were analysed using framework analysis.

Results
Parents, spouses and siblings were confronted with a burden specific to the demand of different life situations, and their needs differ accordingly. The findings showed four themes: burden, stigma, violence and needs.

Discussion
This study provides insight into the experience of Omani relatives living with schizophrenia. Although the caregiving experience appears negative, some positive elements of caregiving experience were prominent among siblings. Furthermore, the violence phenomenon among individuals with schizophrenia needs to be addressed as a priority.

Implications for practice
Understanding the experience, feelings and needs of relatives living with schizophrenia would enable mental health nurses to provide a range of interventions to help reduce caregivers’ burden and promote the positive gains from the caregiving experience. The concept of stigma resistance in the Arab world may guide the establishment of stigma reduction programmes.