University of Toronto researchers have found that caregivers are at a high risk of developing clinical depression up to a year after their critically ill patients leave the intensive care unit (ICU).
The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine on May 12, highlights the need to consider the mental health of caregivers in post-ICU care.
The research was led by Professor Jill Cameron of the department of occupational science and occupational therapy. She notes that while caregiver assistance can be beneficial to patients, it may have negative consequences for those who provide it. That can include poor health-related quality of life, emotional distress, caregiver burden, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Full article at: U of T News