EXPLORATION OF MENTAL HEALTH AND PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT NEEDS OF STROKE CAREGIVERS: A QUALITATIVE APPROACH BASED ON LOCAL CULTURE IN TANA LUWU, SOUTH SULAWESI, INDONESIA

Abstract

Background: After stroke, patients and their families (caregivers) face significant mental health challenges. The psychological well-being of stroke patients is often threatened by depression, anxiety, and changes in social roles, while caregivers experience mental burdens due to the responsibility of caring. In the context of Tana Luwu culture which is strongly familial, psychosocial, spiritual, and community support approaches play an important role. Objective: This study analyzes the mental health of stroke patients and caregivers based on field findings in the Kadatuan Tana Luwu area.

Method: Qualitative research with a descriptive phenomenological approach was conducted through in-depth interviews with primary caregivers and traditional figures/communities in the Kadatuan Tana Luwu area. Data analysis used Thematic data analysis using NVIVO 15.

Results: Thematic findings consisted of: (1) Mental health of caregivers with 8 sub-themes, namely high anxiety, patience, resignation, sadness, crying, anger, frustration, and fatigue; (2) Efforts to overcome mental health of caregivers which have 2 sub-themes, pouring out one's heart and praying; and (3) Mental health support with 8 sub-themes, namely providing treatment information, visiting and comforting, neighbors providing advice, praying together, material and moral support, family providing advice, family gatherings, and visits from health workers. Conclusion: The mental health of stroke patient caregivers is greatly influenced by the burden of care, limited support, and family social dynamics. Psychological symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, and frustration require a holistic approach. Adaptive coping strategies such as praying, pouring out one's heart, and support from the surrounding environment have been shown to help maintain the emotional stability of caregivers. Multidimensional interventions based on family, health services, and community are needed to support the psychological well-being of caregivers and accelerate the recovery of stroke patients.