Emotional and Psychological Experiences of Family Caregivers in Cancer Medication Management: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Cancer treatment often involves complex medication regimens, which can be physically and emotionally taxing for patients and their families. While much research has focused on the patient’s experience, less attention has been paid to the subjective experiences of family members who support them, particularly in managing medication-related challenges. A gap remains in understanding how family caregivers experience and interpret the emotional and psychological burdens of supporting patients through treatment. In this study, we use a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of family members providing support for cancer patients, specifically focusing on medication management and its associated emotional challenges. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with 15 family caregivers, and thematic analysis was conducted to identify key themes. Our findings reveal that family members experience significant emotional distress related to the side effects of cancer medication, but emotional support and communication within families were essential to managing these challenges. These findings underscore the importance of healthcare providers offering targeted interventions to alleviate caregiver distress and improve communication strategies. Healthcare providers should consider implementing regular counseling sessions for family caregivers and integrating support systems into the cancer care process. The results contribute to a deeper understanding of caregiving dynamics and offer implications for future research and support strategies for family caregivers.