Psychiatric Morbidity among Caregivers of Persons with Alcohol Use Disorder: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a major public health concern whose consequences extend beyond the affected individual to spouses, children, and other family members. Caregivers of persons with AUD experience prolonged psychological, social, financial, and interpersonal stress that increases vulnerability to psychiatric morbidity.

Aim and Objectives: The present systematic review aimed to identify psychiatric morbidities among caregivers of persons with AUD.

Methodology: A qualitative and integrative review was conducted using literature published between year 2011 and 2025 on caregivers of persons with AUD. The scientific platforms like PubMed, Google Scholar, PsycINFO, ResearchGate, and JSTOR were searched using terms related to AUD, caregivers, family members, psychiatric morbidity, depression, anxiety, and caregiver burden. Eligible studies examining psychiatric or psychological outcomes among caregivers or family members of persons with AUD were narratively synthesized.

Results: The reviewed studies demonstrated a substantial psychiatric morbidity among caregivers, particularly spouses. Reported psychiatric morbidity approximately 70.9%. Depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment disorders, and dysthymia were the most frequently reported conditions. Psychiatric morbidity was associated with greater severity and duration of alcohol dependence, caregiver burden, domestic violence, poor marital satisfaction, limited family support, and poorer quality of life.

Conclusion: Psychiatric morbidity among caregivers of persons with AUD is substantial but remains under-recognized. Routine assessment of caregiver mental health and burden, together with family counseling, psychological interventions, and appropriate psychiatric referrals, should be integrated into AUD treatment. A family-centered approach may improve caregiver well-being and support recovery of the person with AUD