Describing and understanding depression in spouses of cancer patients in palliative phase

The cancer patient's relatives and family constitute one of the patient's main sources of support throughout the disease. In recent years, several studies have emphasized the psychological vulnerability of spouses-caregivers with a high proportion suffering from anxiety and depression symptoms. The literature underlines several factors of detrimental outcomes but critical aspects of the spousal relationship as attachment were neglected.

This study aims at (1) describing depressive symptoms and depression among spouses who care for palliative cancer patients and (2) highlighting important factors explaining these symptoms.

We surveyed 60 spouses 1-6 months before the patient's death, (38 men, mean age: 62 years).

We found a high frequency of depression symptoms (25%) in the sample. Higher depression scores were associated to insecure-anxious attachment style, more frequent venting of emotion and disengagement through substance use.

Despite limitations, this description of caregivers' emotional adjustment in the palliative phase is unique. Future support programs could use the present information by focusing on emotional venting and avoidance. It also underlines the benefits for caregivers to develop organizational skills thanks to services that will lessen tasks or care responsibilities.