Caregiver meaning: a study of caregivers of individuals with mental illness.

The study discussed in this article examined caregiver meaning. Study participants were individuals paid and supported by the South Carolina Department of Mental Health Homeshare program to provide care in their home for an individual with severe mental illness. A structured questionnaire and interviews were used to develop categories and themes about caregiver meaning. Quantitative and qualitative analyses yielded three categories of caregiver meaning: other-directed-altruistic, self-directed-self-actualization, and existential-purpose in life. Caregivers most often referred to altruistic themes, with the most common one being "helping others." The next most common themes were "home and family" and "making a difference." Caregiving difficulties also were categorized. Social work implications are discussed.