Psycho-oncology
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The construct of "meaning in life" (MiL) has raised the interest of clinicians working in psycho-oncology and end-of-life care. It has become a topic of scientific investigation where diverse assessment approaches have been applied. ⋯ This overview of available instruments underscores the complexity of the construct and might assist researchers to select an appropriate instrument for their research needs. Finally, it points to the need for more integrative theorizing and research on MiL.
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Caregivers, assuming the responsibilities of caring for patients, are involved in significant emotional and physical caring which may lead to depressive symptoms. However, few studies are available pertaining to related factors of depressive symptoms among cancer caregivers in China. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of depressive symptoms and to explore its predictive factors. ⋯ Chinese caregivers of cancer patients experienced higher levels of depressive symptoms. Demographic characteristics of caregivers and subjective caregiving burden were the most significant predictors of depressive symptoms, whereas SOC could attenuate the levels of depressive symptoms. Caregiving burden should be decreased, and SOC is highly recommended to manage caregiving tasks in order to alleviate depressive symptoms.
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Peer support is much valued by cancer patients. Previous research has focused on support groups, typically for women with breast cancer; little has addressed one-to-one support. This qualitative study examined a telephone-delivered one-to-one peer support intervention for women with gynaecological cancer, focusing on recipients' experiences of process and outcome. ⋯ One-to-one telephone peer support shares common features with support groups but is uniquely dependent on an effective working relationship between the support provider and recipient. Peer support can address the disease- and treatment-specific concerns of women with gynaecological cancer, as well as the adaptive tasks of recovery faced by cancer survivors. Further research needs to examine who is more or less likely to benefit from one-to-one peer support and which parameters of the intervention, such as duration and matching, influence its effectiveness. Patient-relevant outcomes should be included in future controlled trials.