Quality of life and stress in caregivers of drug-addicted people*

Objective: To evaluate quality of life and presence of stress in caregivers of drug-addicted people. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out at four Psychosocial Care Centers in Mato Grosso. Demographic and quality of life data were collected for 109 caregivers using the Medical Outcomes Study 36 – Item Short-form, depression symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory) and stress of caregivers (Caregiver Burden Scale). Results: Of 109 caregivers, 55.9% were mothers with a mean age of 47.66 years; 23.8% had depressive symptoms. The SF36 scores most compromised were emotional aspects, vitality, pain and mental health. Mean stress among caregivers was 2.24. A significant correlation in quality of life, depression and stress of caregivers was seen. Conclusion: Findings confirmed that quality of life is compromised and stress is high among caregivers, highlighting the need for providing emotional support.