Caregivers make up a crucial informal workforce that is frequently disregarded and underappreciated, and they confront difficulties including juggling their caring responsibilities and keeping their best possible health. Taking care of someone who has mental health problems can have a big influence on the caregiver's well-being. Although providing this type of care can be immensely fulfilling, there are drawbacks as well. Caregivers experience initial despair and distress, leading to physiological changes and impaired health behaviours, which may ultimately result in illness and potentially mortality. The scope and gravity of the mental health caregiving issue have been underestimated in Nigeria, and caregivers struggle to maintain their welfare while providing care for the patients. Insufficient support can lead to family mental health caregivers becoming sick themselves. Although it may not lead to the same illness, these individuals often lose their sense of self while attempting to prevent their loved ones from experiencing the same loss. It is vital that caregivers value their own mental health and get help when they need it. Maintaining one's health is essential to continuing to effectively care for others. Implementing counselling for caregivers and establishing support groups are some of the essential initiatives to address the psychological and emotional strain associated with mental health caregiving in Nigeria. The relevant organizations have to take action to verify and publicize these initiatives' efficacy. Mental health professionals and consultants also need to consider brief periodic evaluations of the caregiver’s mental health situation, which will help to determine if the patient is getting the right care and whether the caregiver is able to provide it. Additionally, supporting legislative measures that guarantee caregivers receive the assistance and resources they require and acknowledging caregiver burden as a recognized disease is proposed.

Caregiving, Caregiver’s Burden, Mental Health, Primary Caregiver, Health Psychology