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Abstract

Caregiving is an emotionally taxing and physically challenging role that can result in psychological distress and burnout. The finding suggests an important gender and age model in studying the association between psychological distress and caregiver burnout. Standardized psychological measures were used to assess a sample of 300 caregivers, whose data were analysed statistically via correlation, independent sample t-tests, and ANOVA. Conclusion: The results show a significant relationship between depression, anxiety and caregiver burnout, as well that female and middle-aged caregivers had higher levels of emotional exhaustion. The analysis of the correlation also showed a positive significant relation between psychological distress and burnout, confirming previous studies indicating the negative effects of caregiving on mental well-being. Independent sample t-tests indicated that female caregivers reported significantly more distress than male caregivers; while an ANOVA demonstrated that middle aged caregivers were at higher risk of burnout than younger or older caregivers. These results emphasize the need for gender-sensitive and age-targeted programs to help caregivers’ mental health. Longitudinal designs are required in future studies to better understand causal relationships, and the efficacy of psychological approaches at alleviating caregiver burden. Moreover, the provision of digital health tools, such as telemedicine and mobile-based solutions, may contribute to mental health support. Targeted interventions and policy initiatives to prevent caregiver burnout can improve the quality of care caregivers provide, as well as their well-being.