Discussion
The primary aim of this study was to investigate the impact that providing care for a relative has on the occurrence of a Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder as defined by the DSM-IV-TR (APA, 2000). Specifically, this study aimed to decipher whether significant differences in the prevalence of depressive and anxiety disorders existed among caregivers who provide care for a relative with a physical illness and those who provide care for a relative with a psychological illness. A secondary aim of this study was to identify the predictive value of a number of factors that would impact the likelihood of a person suffering from a Depressive Disorder or a Generalized Anxiety Disorder. The study provides comprehensive findings on the impact that caregiving has on psychological wellbeing. Moreover, a number of risk factors were identified as significantly increasing the likelihood of suffering from a depressive or anxiety disorder.