Social support as predictor of anxiety and depression in cancer caregivers six months after cancer diagnosis: A longitudinal study

Abstract

Aims and objectives: To establish the predictive utility of specific social support domains for emotional well-being in cancer caregivers, six months after their partner's cancer diagnosis.

Background: In cancer caregivers, social support has been consistently related to anxiety and depression. There is little information, however, about the predictive utility of specific social support domains for psychological well-being in the first six months after a partner's cancer diagnosis.

Design: Longitudinal research study.

Methods: Sixty-seven caregivers of recently diagnosed cancer patients were recruited from the Reina Sofia University Hospital in Cordoba (Spain). Participants completed a set of questionnaires including the Berlin Social Support Scale (BSSS), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and a socio-demographic questionnaire. Data were collected at two time points: T1 (30-45 days after diagnosis) and T2 (180-200 days after). TRIPOD checklist was used.

Results: Most of the caregivers were female (65%) and the partner of the patient (58%), with an average age of 51.63 years (SD = 13.25). Statistical differences were observed between the two assessment points for the social support domains of perceived emotional support, satisfaction with support and protective buffering. Logistic regression analysis showed that less physical and sports activity, more support seeking and less informational support received at T1 predicted anxiety at T2, while less perceived available support predicted depression.

Conclusions: Accurate information and support from other members of the community and the promotion of physical and sports routines for cancer caregivers may help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression in the first months after a partner's cancer diagnosis.

Relevance to clinical practice: Clinicians must pay attention to the social support needs and physical activity of caregivers in the first days after diagnosis, in order to prevent anxiety and depression.

Keywords: Anxiety; Cancer; Caregiver Burden; Depression; Oncology Nursing; Social Support Theory.