Abstract:
Background: Mental illnesses attract a lot of stigma. However schizophrenia is one of the most
stigmatized mental conditions because of its perceived dangerousness and unpredictability. The
stigma experienced by persons with schizophrenia can hinder help-seeking behaviours further
exacerbating their condition. It is therefore important to find out the experiences of stigma
among the family and persons with schizophrenia in order to come up with intervention to stop
such behaviours in public. This study sought to explore experiences of stigma against family.
caregivers and persons with schizophrenia.
Methods: This study employed a qualitative research approach using two focus group
discussions (N= 18) among schizophrenic patient and eight (8) in-depth patients (3 among
patients and 5 among patients relatives). Purposive sampling technique was used to select the
stud} participants. All interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim after which manual
thematic content analysis was used to generate themes. Various themes on perceived causes of
sch izophrenia and experiences of stigma among the study population were explored.
Result: The study revealed that schizophrenia is caused by supernatural forces. f1 was the view
of participants that. people get schizophrenia because of curses, evil machinations and demonic
attacks and such people are afraid of people who have the condition and their family members.
The study further revealed that people with schizophrenia and their relatives are stigmatised at
the community. Due to these stigmatizing attitude, family members and persons with
schizophrenia avoided social gatherings like funerals. wedding and naming ceremonies. The
famil) members also revealed the burden they suffer due to the caregiving role.
Conclusion: Schizophrenia is believed to be spiritual mental health condition and stigmatization
of patients with schizophrenia and their relatives was common in the community. As a result of
the stigma both patients and relative stay away from public gathering and resort to spiritual
healers for health care.
