ConclusionThis study is the first to report the caregiving-related dimensions and experiences associated with depression severity among caregivers of a relative living with a SMD using a network approach. Characterization of the network structure of such caregiving experiences and depressive symptoms expands the knowledge regarding mental health of caregivers in psychiatry and allows a better understanding of the multivariate relationships underlying caregivers' depression symptomatology. In light of the complex nature of the identified network, we propose that caregivers' depression should be best addressed by the provision of various, complementary interventions including psychoeducation to caregivers. Expansion of this research topic can identify symptom-specific causal pathways and help to specify the topics that should be primarily addressed in caregiver psychoeducational interventions. Such enhanced psychoeducational programs may help to reduce the risk of development or recurrence of caregivers' depression.