A Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of a Planned Psychoeducation Programme on Reduction of Stress Among Wives of Alcoholic Patients in a Selected De-Addiction Center at Meerut

Abstract

Background: Alcohol dependence not only affects the individual but also imposes a significant emotional, psychological, and social burden on their immediate family, particularly their spouses. Wives of alcohol-dependent individuals often experience heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression due to continuous caregiving responsibilities, social stigma, and financial instability.

Objectives: To assess the level of stress among wives of alcohol-dependent patients in a selected de-addiction center at Meerut; to evaluate the effectiveness of a Planned Psychoeducation Programme on reduction of stress; and to examine the association between post-test stress scores with selected demographic variables.

Methodology: The study employed a pre-experimental one-group pre-test post-test design. Sixty wives of alcohol-dependent patients were selected through convenient sampling. Stress levels were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). A psychoeducation programme focusing on stress management, emotional support, communication skills, and understanding alcohol dependence was administered. Post-test data were collected after 7 days.

Results: The mean pre-test stress score was 29.73 (SD = 4.16), which significantly reduced to 23.01 (SD = 6.78) post-intervention, yielding a t-value of 8.88 (p < 0.05). Chi-square analysis revealed significant association of post-test stress with demographic variables such as education and income.

Conclusion: The psychoeducation programme was effective in significantly reducing stress levels among wives of alcohol-dependent patients. Integration of such structured programmes into de-addiction centers can promote mental well-being and resilience among caregivers.