Abstract:
literature reported several factors which could impact the quality of life of caregivers
and patients with psychiatric illnesses. This study aimed to determine the level of
quality of life among a sample of 532 of caregivers and patients with psychiatric illness
at two out-patient mental health clinics in Northern Jordan, and to examine the
relationships of sociodemographic characteristics, stigma and caregiver perceptions of
burden with quality of life. A correlational descriptive design was utilized. Three Selfadministered
questionnaires were used. Results indicated that patients had low to
moderate QOL, and they suffered moderate to high stigma. Also, family caregivers
perceived low to moderate QOL. Patients' and family caregivers' stigma perception
correlated negatively and significantly with WHOQOL-BREF. Family caregivers' burden
correlated negatively and significantly with all domains of WHOQOL-BREF, total QOL-
100 and self-reported general health. Health care providers should assure the
importance of focusing more toward minimizing stigma and promoting physical and
general health to maintain good quality of life of caregivers and patients with mental
illnesses.