Common mental disorders and associated factors among caregivers of individuals with mental illness: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Caregivers of individuals with mental illness often face substantial psychological burden, increasing their risk of common mental disorders (CMDs), including depression, anxiety, and psychological distress. Despite this, there is limited pooled evidence on the prevalence and associated factors of common mental disorders among caregivers in Africa. To estimate the pooled prevalence of common mental disorders and identify associated risk factors among caregivers of individuals with mental illness in Africa. This systematic review and meta-analysis followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251033409). A comprehensive literature search was conducted across six databases up to April 30, 2025. Observational studies reporting prevalence or associated factors of common mental disorders among caregivers were included. Data were extracted and analyzed using a random-effects model in STATA 17. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I 2 statistic, and publication bias was evaluated through funnel plots and Egger’s regression test. Sixteen studies ( n = 4,034 caregivers) were included. The pooled prevalence of CMDs was 47.42% (95% CI: 34.74%, 56.11%), with substantial heterogeneity (I 2 = 97.2%). Subgroup analyses indicated higher prevalence among caregivers of children and adolescents (55.31%) and those in Nigeria (53.91%). Significant factors associated with CMDs included low social support (POR = 4.65; 95% CI: 2.59, 8.33), female gender (POR = 2.45; 95% CI: 1.92, 3.13), farming occupation (POR = 2.31; 95% CI: 1.53, 3.48), duration of illness > 5 years (POR = 1.97; 95% CI: 1.24, 3.14), divorce or widowed status (POR = 1.77; 95% CI: 1.24, 2.54), inability to read/write (POR = 3.35; 95% CI: 1.95, 5.74), primary education (POR = 1.83; 95% CI: 1.10, 3.05), repeated hospital admissions (POR = 2.22; 95% CI: 1.04, 4.76), caregiving for individuals with psychosis (POR = 2.78; 95% CI: 1.87, 4.15), or bipolar disorder (POR = 2.97; 95% CI: 1.56, 5.65). The overall pooled association was significant (POR = 2.11; 95% CI: 1.78, 2.50). No significant publication bias was detected. Common mental disorders are highly prevalent among caregivers in Africa. Caregiver-focused mental health services are essential for high-risk groups, including those with low education, limited social support, and caregivers of patients with severe psychiatric conditions. These findings underscore the need for routine screening and community-based support interventions across Africa’s health care systems. Not applicable.