Qualitative interviewing of Malay caregivers: stigma and mental health problems of older adults

In many cultures, diagnoses of mental illness are commonly associated with stigmatisation. Negative attitudes and beliefs cause significant problems not only for people with mental illness but also for their caregivers. Such attitudes and beliefs are embedded in cultural, religious and social contexts. It is important therefore to understand experiences of stigma in a range of contexts. This article reports on a qualitative study of the experiences of fourteen Malay caregivers’ of older people with a mental health problem in Kelantan, Malaysia. The in-depth interview data were analysed thematically. The impacts of stigma are reported in relation to caregivers’ life course opportunities; shame and embarrassment in a small community; a complex mix of understandings and the role of religion and culture in help-seeking behaviour. The challenges and ways forward to address this sensitive issue in this particular socio-cultural context are presented.