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Low CE, Loke S, Rana S, Sim B, Ho CSH. Prevalence and incidence of suicide, suicidal ideation and self-harm in caregivers of cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2024; 90:35-43. [PMID: 38936297 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2024.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Caregiving burden is set to increase with the rising incidence of cancer globally. The meta-analysis seeks to investigate the prevalence of suicide, suicidal ideation and self-harm among the caregivers of patients with cancer (CPCs). METHODS This PRISMA-adherent systematic review involved a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and PsycINFO for all studies that evaluated the prevalence of suicide, suicidal ideation and self-harm in CPCs. Random effects meta-analyses were used for primary analysis. RESULTS Eleven studies were included. Meta-analyses indicated that the prevalence of suicidal ideation in CPCs was 11% (95%CI:6-18), suicide prevalence was 6% (95%CI:3-12), and self-harm prevalence was 15% (95%CI:8-26). Subgroup analyses revealed that CPCs above the age of 50 experienced a greater prevalence of suicidal ideation (17%, 95%CI:10-28) as compared to CPCs below 50 (6%, 95%CI:3-12). Family caregivers particularly spouses were also found to have a higher prevalence of suicidal ideation (17%, 95%CI:13-23), as compared to children (5%, 95%CI:2-10) or mothers (3%, 95%CI:1-8). Systematic review found that having a pre-existing mental health condition and lower socioeconomic status increased likelihood of suicidality. CONCLUSION We highlight the need for more support of CPCs at risk of suicidality. Additional research is warranted to identify other risk and protective factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Ee Low
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sean Loke
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sounak Rana
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ben Sim
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cyrus Su Hui Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Department of Psychological Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore.
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2
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Malmström N, Öhlén J, Jakobsson Larsson B, Nilsson S, Nygren I, M Andersen P, Ozanne A. Adolescents' challenging and grief-filled transitions when living with a parent with ALS: A qualitative interpretive study. Soc Sci Med 2024; 354:117063. [PMID: 38971043 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.117063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aimed to explore the meaning for adolescents of living with a parent with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). METHODS The design is qualitative. Interviews were conducted between December 2020 and April 2022 with 11 adolescents (8-25 y), living in households with a parent with ALS in Sweden. The analysis was phenomenologically hermeneutical. RESULTS The adolescents were in a difficult and exposed situation, especially if the parent had a severe disability and assistant care providers were in the home. Witnessing the gradual loss of the parent in an indefinite battle against time, while still needing them, elicited grief-filled and hard-to-manage emotions. Everyday life was turned upside down, resulting in greater responsibility for the adolescents, not only in helping with household chores and assisting the ill parent, but also in emotionally protecting both parents. It forced the adolescents to mature faster and put their own life on hold, triggering experiences of being limited. This, together with changing family roles yet being more attached to home, reinforced the imbalance in the adolescents' lives. The interpreted whole of the adolescents' narratives revealed that living with a parent with ALS meant a challenging and grieving transition during an already transition-filled adolescence, which left the adolescents struggling to keep a foothold on a life torn apart. CONCLUSION The unbalanced life situation may hinder the adolescents' identity formation and emancipation, which are developmentally important for managing a healthy and independent adulthood. The results emphasize the importance of early targeted support to reach this vulnerable group in order to secure their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Malmström
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Joakim Öhlén
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Centre for Person-Centred Care, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Palliative Centre at the Sahlgrenska University Hospital Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Birgitta Jakobsson Larsson
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Neurology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Stefan Nilsson
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Centre for Person-Centred Care, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ingela Nygren
- Department of Neurology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Medical Sciences, Neurology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Peter M Andersen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anneli Ozanne
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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3
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Rezaie L, Schwebel DC. Psychological needs of children of mothers who attempt suicide by self-immolation. Burns 2024:S0305-4179(24)00194-3. [PMID: 39244412 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2024.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Leeba Rezaie
- Sleep Disorders Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - David C Schwebel
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA.
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4
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Lammon M. The Ashes of Tragedy: Parental Death and Child Character Development in Bambi and The Lion King. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231202884. [PMID: 37713269 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231202884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The Walt Disney company has been the topic of extensive research for decades; among the explored subjects and identified themes is Disney's fixation on death. Disney has capitalized on the incredibly traumatic childhood experience of the death of a parent by featuring parental death as a major narrative component. Speculation remains regarding the accuracy of not only death presentations in media, but death influence on characters. Using textual analysis, this paper explores the role of parental death on child character development within two Disney animated films. Analysis demonstrates an inaccurate depiction of parental death influence on children in a positive light - essentially overlooking the trauma associated with loss during childhood and the mediating factors of long-term bereavement outcomes. Conversations remain to be had regarding how these inaccurate depictions of death and dying in popular culture influence the children consuming them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa Lammon
- Department of Media Studies, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
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5
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Jessop M, Fischer A, Good P. Impact of expected parental death on the health of adolescent and young adult children: A systematic review of the literature. Palliat Med 2022; 36:928-937. [PMID: 35510358 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221092618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies of health impacts of parental death focus on the developmental stage of adolescence and young adulthood and in particular, expected parental death from terminal illness. AIM To systematically review the health impact of expected parental death on adolescent and young adult children aged 15-25 years and provide a basis for further research and clinical practice. DESIGN Systematic review registered on PROSPERO (CRD42017080282). DATA SOURCES Pubmed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, MEDLINE and Cochrane databases were searched with no restrictions on publication date with the last search in March 2021. Eligible articles included studies of adolescent and young adult children (defined by age range of 15-25 years) exposed to parental death due to terminal illness, and with reported health outcomes (physical, psychological or social). Articles were reviewed using the QualSyst tool. RESULTS Ten articles met the inclusion criteria. Adolescent and young adult children reported poor family cohesion and communication with associated negative psychological outcomes. They reported distrust in the health care provided to their terminally ill parent, increased psychological distress and risk of unresolved grief, anxiety and self-harm. Some experience was positive with posttraumatic growth identified. CONCLUSIONS This review specifically analysed the health impact of expected parental death on adolescent and young adult children. It highlights their need for age-appropriate psychosocial support and clear information during parental illness, death and bereavement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Jessop
- Department of Palliative Care, St Vincent's Private Hospital Brisbane, Main Street, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Amanda Fischer
- Department of Palliative Care, St Vincent's Private Hospital Brisbane, Main Street, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Phillip Good
- Department of Palliative Care, St Vincent's Private Hospital Brisbane, Main Street, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, Mater Health Services, Raymond Terrace, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Mater Research Institute-University of Queensland, Raymond Terrace, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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6
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Hauskov Graungaard A, Hafting M, Davidsen AS, Lykke K. How is my child doing - parental understanding of their children when a parent has cancer. J Psychosoc Oncol 2021; 41:43-58. [PMID: 34961424 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2021.2013386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
To explore the difficulties parents face when understanding their children's reactions to parental cancer and parents' reactions to their children's perceived needs. Qualitative interviews with cancer patients and their partners. Eleven patients and seven partners took part. Their children were aged 1-15 years. Eight patients were mothers and cancer was diagnosed median 28 (7-104) months ago. Inductive analysis with systematic text condensation. Parents were groping in the dark when understanding their children's reactions. They observed signs of distress in their children, but often avoided communication about emotional reactions. We suggest parental difficulties in containing own and children's emotions as an important cause for this situation. Parents lacked relevant support offers for the family as a unit. Identification of children's difficulties cannot be based on parental evaluation alone. We suggest family support as part of standard care for patients with minor children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anette Hauskov Graungaard
- Section and Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Annette Sofie Davidsen
- Section and Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Lykke
- Section and Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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7
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Eklund R, Lövgren M, Alvariza A, Kreicbergs U, Udo C. Talking about death when a parent with dependent children dies of cancer: A pilot study of the Family Talk Intervention in palliative care. DEATH STUDIES 2021; 46:2384-2394. [PMID: 34214023 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2021.1947415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study focused on families with dependent children who participated in the Family Talk Intervention (FTI) and lost a parent during the intervention or directly thereafter. The aim was to explore how they perceived information and communication about the imminent death during the illness trajectory and after the loss. Seven families from palliative homecare settings in Sweden participated. This study suggests that it is important to support family communication when a parent is dying, since communication in this situation is unlike everyday family communication, as they enter a complex and existentially unfamiliar area, hard to initiate on their own.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakel Eklund
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neuroscience, National Centre for Disaster Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Malin Lövgren
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden
| | - Anette Alvariza
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Capio Palliative Care, Dalen Hospital, Enskededalen, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden
| | - Camilla Udo
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
- Center for Clinical Research (CKF) Dalarna, Uppsala University, Sweden
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8
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Bylund-Grenklo T, Birgisdóttir D, Beernaert K, Nyberg T, Skokic V, Kristensson J, Steineck G, Fürst CJ, Kreicbergs U. Acute and long-term grief reactions and experiences in parentally cancer-bereaved teenagers. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:75. [PMID: 34044835 PMCID: PMC8161967 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00758-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous research shows that many cancer-bereaved youths report unresolved grief several years after the death of a parent. Grief work hypothesis suggests that, in order to heal, the bereaved needs to process the pain of grief in some way. This study explored acute grief experiences and reactions in the first 6 months post-loss among cancer-bereaved teenagers. We further explored long-term grief resolution and potential predictors of having had “an okay way to grieve” in the first months post-loss. Methods We used a population-based nationwide, study-specific survey to investigate acute and long-term grief experiences in 622 (73% response rate) bereaved young adults (age > 18) who, 6–9 years earlier, at ages 13–16 years, had lost a parent to cancer. Associations were assessed using bivariable and multivariable logistic regression. Results Fifty-seven per cent of the participants reported that they did not have a way to grieve that felt okay during the first 6 months after the death of their parent. This was associated with increased risk for long-term unresolved grief (odds ratio (OR): 4.32, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.99–6.28). An association with long-term unresolved grief was also found for those who reported to have been numbing and postponing (42%, OR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.22–2.47), overwhelmed by grief (24%, OR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.35–3.04) and discouraged from grieving (15%, OR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.62–4.56) or to have concealed their grief to protect the other parent (24%, OR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.23–2.73). Predictors of having had an okay way to grieve included being male, having had good family cohesion, and having talked about what was important with the dying parent. Conclusion More than half of the cancer-bereaved teenagers did not find a way to grieve that felt okay during the first 6 months after the death of their parent and the acute grief experiences and reaction were associated with their grief resolution long-term, i.e. 6–9 years post-loss. Facilitating a last conversation with their dying parent, good family cohesion, and providing teenagers with knowledge about common grief experiences may help to prevent long-term unresolved grief. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12904-021-00758-7
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Affiliation(s)
- Tove Bylund-Grenklo
- Department of Caring Science, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, University of Gävle, SE-801 76, Gävle, Sweden.
| | - Dröfn Birgisdóttir
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Oncology and Pathology, Institute for Palliative Care, Lund University and Region Skåne, Medicon Village, Hus 404B, 223 81, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Kim Beernaert
- Ghent University & Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), End-of-Life Care Research Group, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tommy Nyberg
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Division of Clinical Cancer Epidemiology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Viktor Skokic
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Division of Clinical Cancer Epidemiology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jimmie Kristensson
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Oncology and Pathology, Institute for Palliative Care, Lund University and Region Skåne, Medicon Village, Hus 404B, 223 81, Lund, Sweden.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Steineck
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Division of Clinical Cancer Epidemiology, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Oncology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Division of Clinical Cancer Epidemiology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Carl Johan Fürst
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Oncology and Pathology, Institute for Palliative Care, Lund University and Region Skåne, Medicon Village, Hus 404B, 223 81, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- Department of Caring Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Palliative Research Center, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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9
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Myers-Coffman K, Krater C, Shanine M, Bradt J. Feasibility and acceptability of the resilience songwriting program for adolescent bereavement. ARTS IN PSYCHOTHERAPY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aip.2020.101724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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10
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Eklund R, Jalmsell L, Kreicbergs U, Alvariza A, Lövgren M. Children's experiences of the family talk intervention when a parent is cared for in palliative home care-A feasibility study. DEATH STUDIES 2020; 46:1655-1666. [PMID: 33054633 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2020.1829747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of the family talk intervention (FTI) and its acceptability to dependent children when a parent is cared for in palliative home care. The main goal of FTI is to increase family communication about the illness. The present paper derives from a pilot study and is based on 25 children's reports, involving both questionnaires and interviews, after participation. A majority of the children appreciated the structure and content of FTI. They felt seen, heard, and acknowledged by the interventionists and recommended FTI to other children in similar situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakel Eklund
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neuroscience, National Centre for Disaster Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Li Jalmsell
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Breast cancer, Endocrine Tumors and Sarcoma, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anette Alvariza
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Capio Palliative Care, Dalen Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malin Lövgren
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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11
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Eklund R, Kreicbergs U, Alvariza A, Lövgren M. Children's Views Are Not Taken Into Account in Accordance With Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child in the Family Talk Intervention When a Parent Is Cared for in Palliative Care. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2020; 85:126-154. [PMID: 32659170 DOI: 10.1177/0030222820941283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Having a parent with a life-threatening illness is challenging throughout the illness trajectory, and for some also in bereavement. Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child states a child's right to express their opinion and have it respected in processes that affect them. The aims of this paper were to explore the child's active participation in a family support programme, the Family Talk Intervention, in accordance with Article 12, when having a parent cared for in palliative care. Twenty families with 50 children participated. Fieldnotes were taken during the programme and later analysed with interpretive descriptions. The study shows that all children were listened to, but only a quarter reached the minimum point required in Article 12, where their views were taken into account. The Family Talk Intervention in palliative care would benefit from implementing a child-centred approach in order for all children to be active participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakel Eklund
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden.,The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anette Alvariza
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden.,Capio Palliative Care, Dalen Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malin Lövgren
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden.,The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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12
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Eklund R, Kreicbergs U, Alvariza A, Lövgren M. Children's Self-Reports About Illness-Related Information and Family Communication When a Parent Has a Life-Threatening Illness. JOURNAL OF FAMILY NURSING 2020; 26:102-110. [PMID: 31931660 DOI: 10.1177/1074840719898192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Children's experiences of information and family communication when a parent has a life-threatening illness have been sparsely studied, though such information is important for the child's wellbeing. The aim of this study was to explore children's reports of illness-related information and family communication when living with a parent with a life-threatening illness. Forty-eight children, aged 7 to 19 years, were recruited from four specialized palliative home care units in Stockholm, Sweden. All but one child reported that someone had told them about the parent's life-threatening illness; however, two thirds wanted more information. A quarter of the teenagers reported that they had questions about the illness that they did not dare to ask. Half of the children, aged 8 to 12, reported that they felt partially or completely unable to talk about how they felt or show their feelings to someone in the family. Interventions are needed that promote greater family communication and family-professional communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakel Eklund
- Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anette Alvariza
- Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Capio Palliative Care, Dalen Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malin Lövgren
- Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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13
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Eklund R, Alvariza A, Kreicbergs U, Jalmsell L, Lövgren M. The family talk intervention for families when a parent is cared for in palliative care - potential effects from minor children's perspectives. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:50. [PMID: 32299420 PMCID: PMC7164202 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00551-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children show long-term psychological distress if family communication and illness-related information are poor during and after a parent's illness and death. Few psychosocial interventions for families with minor children living with a parent who has a life-threatening illness have been evaluated rigorously. Even fewer interventions have been family-centered. One exception is the Family Talk Intervention (FTI), which has shown promising results regarding increased illness-related knowledge and improved family communication. However, FTI has not yet been evaluated in palliative care. This study therefore aimed to explore the potential effects of FTI from the perspectives of minor children whose parent is cared for in specialized palliative home care. METHODS This pilot intervention study involves questionnaire and interview data collected from children after participation in FTI. Families were recruited from two specialized palliative home care units. To be included, families must include one parent with life-threatening illness, at least one child aged 6-19 years, and understand and speak Swedish. Twenty families with a total of 34 children participated in FTI; 23 children answered the questionnaire, and 22 were interviewed after participation. RESULTS The children reported that FTI increased their knowledge about their parents' illness. They said the interventionist helped them to handle school-related problems, establish professional counselling, and find strength to maintain everyday life. Children aged 8-12 reported that talking with their parents became easier after FTI, whereas communication was unchanged for teenagers and between siblings. Children also reported having been helped to prepare for the future, and that they benefitted from advice about how to maintain everyday life and minimize conflicts within the family. CONCLUSIONS Children who participated in FTI reported that it was helpful in many ways, providing illness-related information and improving family communication when a parent has a life-threatening illness. Other potential positive effects reported by the children were that FTI facilitated their preparation for the future, decreased family conflicts, and started to build up resilience. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier NCT03119545, retrospectively registered 18 April 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakel Eklund
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Anette Alvariza
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden
- Capio Palliative Care, Dalen Hospital, 121 87, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden
- The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, 177 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Li Jalmsell
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Breast Cancer, Endocrine Tumours and Sarcoma, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malin Lövgren
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden
- The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, 177 77, Stockholm, Sweden
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14
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Myers-Coffman K, Baker FA, Daly BP, Palisano R, Bradt J. The Resilience Songwriting Program for Adolescent Bereavement: A Mixed Methods Exploratory Study. J Music Ther 2019; 56:348-380. [PMID: 31605612 DOI: 10.1093/jmt/thz011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Music therapy research with youth who are grieving often reports on a combination of interventions, such as lyric analysis, improvisation, and/or songwriting. Unfortunately, the lack of theoretical transparency in how and why these interventions affect targeted outcomes limits interpretation and application of this important research. In this exploratory study, the authors evaluated the impact of an 8-session, theory-driven group songwriting program on protective factors in adolescent bereavement, and also sought to better understand adolescents' experiences of the program. Using a single-group, pretest-posttest convergent mixed methods design, participants were enrolled from three study sites and included 10 adolescents (five girls and five boys), ages 11-17 years, who self-identified as grieving a loss. Outcomes measured included grief, coping, emotional expression, self-esteem, and meaning making. Qualitative data were captured through in-session journaling and semi-structured interviews. There were no statistically significant improvements for grief, self-esteem, coping, and meaning making. Individual score trends suggested improvements in grief. The majority of the participants reported greater inhibition of emotional expression, and this was statistically significant. Thematic findings revealed that the program offered adolescents a sense of togetherness, a way to safely express grief-related emotions and experiences verbally and nonverbally, and opportunities for strengthening music and coping skills. These findings suggest that engaging in collaborative therapeutic songwriting with grieving peers may decrease levels of grief, enhance creative expression, and provide social support. More research is needed on measuring self-esteem, emotional expression, coping, and meaning making outcomes in ways that are meaningful to adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Joke Bradt
- Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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15
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Ing V, Patterson P, Szabo M, Allison KR. Interventions available to adolescents and young adults bereaved by familial cancer: a systematic literature review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2019; 12:e632-e640. [PMID: 31422375 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2019-001959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the availability and efficacy of interventions open to adolescents and young adults (AYAs; 15-25 years) bereaved by a parent's or sibling's cancer. METHODS A systematic review of peer-reviewed literature on interventions available to AYAs bereaved by a parent's or sibling's cancer was conducted through searches of six online databases (PsycINFO, Medline, Scopus, Embase, SWAB and Web of Science Core Collection). RESULTS Database and reference searches yielded 2985 articles, 40 of which were included in the review. Twenty-two interventions were identified that were available for bereaved young people. However, only three were specific to young people bereaved by familial cancer, and none were specific to AYAs. Interventions primarily provided opportunities for participants to have fun, share their experiences and/or memorialise the deceased; psychoeducation about bereavement, grief and coping was less common. Only six interventions had been satisfactorily evaluated, and no intervention targeted or analysed data for AYAs separately. Overall, some evidence suggested that interventions (especially those that were theoretically grounded) had positive effects for bereaved young people. However, benefits were inconsistently evidenced in participants' self-reports and often only applied to subgroups of participants (eg, older youths and those with better psychological well-being at baseline). CONCLUSIONS Considering the very limited number of interventions specific to bereavement by familial cancer and the lack of interventions targeting AYAs specifically, it is unclear whether currently available interventions would benefit this population. The population of AYAs bereaved by familial cancer is clearly under-serviced; further development and evaluation of interventions is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Ing
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Pandora Patterson
- CanTeen Australia, Newtown, New South Wales, Australia .,Cancer Nursing Research Unit, Sydney Nursing School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Marianna Szabo
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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16
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Yopp JM, Deal AM, Nakamura ZM, Park EM, Edwards T, Wilson DR, Biesecker B, Rosenstein DL. Psychological and parental functioning of widowed fathers: The first two years. JOURNAL OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY : JFP : JOURNAL OF THE DIVISION OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY OF THE AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION (DIVISION 43) 2019; 33:565-574. [PMID: 31021128 PMCID: PMC6886257 DOI: 10.1037/fam0000528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Widowed parents play a critical role in promoting family adaptation and facilitating their children's adjustment to the loss of a parent; yet the psychological wellbeing of these parents has received scant attention. In this study we examined depressive symptoms and grief intensity in 252 spousally bereaved men with dependent-age children. Participants learned of the study and completed initial surveys at variable time points during their first 2 years of bereavement. Depressive and grief symptoms remained persistently high, with 45% of the sample exceeding screening thresholds for clinically significant depressive symptoms two years after the death of their spouses. In linear regression models, higher intensity or frequency of depression and grief symptoms were associated with poorer psychological adaptation, lower parenting self-efficacy, and lower parenting satisfaction scores. Relationships between fathers' distress and potentially modifiable end-of-life variables regarding their spouses were examined. Notably, those who reported that their wives were at peace with dying had lower depressive and grief scores at various intervals. Overall, the magnitude and duration of the depressive and grief symptoms suggests that widowed fathers' psychological distress does not quickly abate over the first 2 years of bereavement, which may be attributable to the unique set of bereavement challenges facing widowed parents such as facilitating their children's grief, assuming sole parenting responsibilities, and managing a household on their own. The findings underscore the need to further examine emotional distress in widowed parents and how their wellbeing impacts family functioning. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Allison M Deal
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Biostatistics Shared Resource
| | | | | | | | - Doug R Wilson
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Biostatistics Shared Resource
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17
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Myers-Coffman K, Baker FA, Bradt J. The Resilience Songwriting Program: A working theoretical model and intervention protocol for adolescent bereavement. NORDIC JOURNAL OF MUSIC THERAPY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/08098131.2019.1642373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Felicity A. Baker
- Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Joke Bradt
- Department of Creative Arts Therapies, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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18
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Birgisdóttir D, Bylund Grenklo T, Nyberg T, Kreicbergs U, Steineck G, Fürst CJ. Losing a parent to cancer as a teenager: Family cohesion in childhood, teenage, and young adulthood as perceived by bereaved and non-bereaved youths. Psychooncology 2019; 28:1845-1853. [PMID: 31250504 PMCID: PMC6771813 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to investigate levels of perceived family cohesion during childhood, teenage years, and young adulthood in cancer‐bereaved youths compared with non‐bereaved peers. Methods In this nationwide, population‐based study, 622 (73%) young adults (aged 18‐26) who had lost a parent to cancer 6 to 9 years previously, when they were teenagers (aged 13–16), and 330 (78%) non‐bereaved peers from a matched random sample answered a study‐specific questionnaire. Associations were assessed using multivariable logistic regression. Results Compared with non‐bereaved youths, the cancer‐bereaved participants were more likely to report poor family cohesion during teenage years (odds ratio [OR] 1.6, 95% CI, 1.0‐2.4, and 2.3, 95% CI, 1.5‐3.5, for paternally and maternally bereaved youths, respectively). This was also seen in young adulthood among maternally bereaved participants (OR 2.5; 95% CI, 1.6‐4.1), while there was no difference between paternally bereaved and non‐bereaved youths. After controlling for a number of covariates (eg, year of birth, number of siblings, and depression), the adjusted ORs for poor family cohesion remained statistically significant. In a further analysis stratified for gender, this difference in perceived poor family cohesion was only noted in females. Conclusion Teenage loss of a parent to cancer was associated with perceived poor family cohesion during teenage years. This was also noted in young adulthood among the maternally bereaved. Females were more likely to report poor family cohesion. Our results indicate a need for increased awareness of family cohesion in bereaved‐to‐be families with teenage offspring, with special attention to gender roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dröfn Birgisdóttir
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Oncology and Pathology, Institute for Palliative Care, Lunds University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Tove Bylund Grenklo
- Clinical Cancer Epidemiology, Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Caring Science, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Tommy Nyberg
- Clinical Cancer Epidemiology, Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Cancer Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Caring Sciences, Palliative Research Center, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Steineck
- The Sahlgrenska Academy, Department of Oncology, Division of Clinical Cancer Epidemiology, University of Gothenburg Institute of Clinical Sciences, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Carl J Fürst
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Oncology and Pathology, Institute for Palliative Care, Lunds University, Lund, Sweden
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19
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Hoffmann R, Kaiser J, Kersting A. Psychosocial outcomes in cancer-bereaved children and adolescents: A systematic review. Psychooncology 2018; 27:2327-2338. [PMID: 30120901 DOI: 10.1002/pon.4863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Due to the unique importance of parental and sibling relationships and concurrently existing developmental challenges, the loss of a parent or sibling due to cancer is a highly stressful event for children and adolescents. This is the first systematic review that integrates findings on psychosocial outcomes after parental or sibling cancer bereavement. METHODS A systematic search of Web of Science, PubMed, PsycINFO, and PubPsych was conducted, last in December 2017. Quantitative studies on psychosocial outcomes of children and adolescents who lost a parent or sibling due to cancer were included. RESULTS Twenty-four studies (N = 10 parental and N = 14 sibling bereavement), based on 13 projects, were included. Ten projects had cross-sectional designs. Only 2 projects used large, population-based samples and nonbereaved comparison groups. Outcomes were partially measured by single-item questions. Bereaved children and adolescents showed similar levels of depression and anxiety compared with nonbereaved or norms. Severe behavioral problems were found rarely. However, in 2 large, population-based studies, about half of the bereaved individuals reported unresolved grief. Bereaved adolescents had a higher risk for self-injury compared with the general population in one large, population-based study. Communication with health-care professionals, family, and other people; social support; distress during illness; age; gender; and time because loss were associated with psychosocial bereavement outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate a high level of adjustment in cancer-bereaved children and adolescents. A modifiable risk factor for adverse psychosocial consequences is poor communication. Prospective designs, representative samples, and validated instruments, eg, for prolonged grief, are suggested for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahel Hoffmann
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Julia Kaiser
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anette Kersting
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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20
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Eklund R, Kreicbergs U, Alvariza A, Lövgren M. The family talk intervention in palliative care: a study protocol. BMC Palliat Care 2018; 17:35. [PMID: 29471826 PMCID: PMC5824474 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-018-0290-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In palliative care contexts, support programs for families with a severely ill parent and minor children are few, and even fewer have been evaluated scientifically. The aims of this study are to examine feasibility and potential effects of a modified version of the Family Talk Intervention (FTI) in palliative care. Methods This ongoing family-centered intervention has a quasi-experimental design comparing one intervention and one comparison group. The intervention includes severely ill parents who have minor children (aged 6–19 yrs) and are receiving advanced homecare in Stockholm, Sweden between March 2017 and March 2018. The main goal of the FTI is to support family communication through psycho-education and narrative theory. The modified FTI consists of six meetings with family members, and is held by two interventionists. Each family sets up needs-based goals for the intervention. For evaluation purposes, data are collected by questionnaire before the intervention, within two months after baseline, and one year after baseline. Interviews will be conducted within two months after FTI is completed. Notes taken by one of the interventionists during the family meetings will also be used. Questionnaire data analysis will focus on patterns over time using descriptive statistics. For interview data and notes, content analysis will be used. Discussion This study will add knowledge about palliative care for parents who have minor children. It will contribute by testing use of FTI in palliative care, and point out directions for future evaluations of FTI in palliative care settings. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03119545, retrospectively registered in April 18, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakel Eklund
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden.,The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, 177 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anette Alvariza
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden.,Capio Palliative Care, Dalen Hospital, 121 87, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malin Lövgren
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden.,The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, 177 77, Stockholm, Sweden
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21
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Lowery Wilson M, Tenovuo O, Gissler M, Saarijärvi S. Association between parent mental health and paediatric TBI: epidemiological observations from the 1987 Finnish Birth Cohort. Inj Prev 2018; 25:283-289. [DOI: 10.1136/injuryprev-2017-042624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Revised: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundThis study examined whether parental mental illness has implications for child risk for traumatic brain injuries (TBI).MethodData on 60 069 Finnish children born in 1987 and their parents were examined for demographic and mental health-related variables in relationship with paediatric TBI. Altogether, 15 variables were derived from the cohort data with ICD-10 F-codes being available for mental health diagnoses for all parents. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were carried out using inpatient and outpatient diagnoses of child TBI.ResultsPaternal disorders due to psychoactive substance use (F10–F19) was associated with an increased inpatient TBI (OR=1.51; CI=1.07 to 2.14). Mood disorders (F30–F39) were associated with higher rates of outpatient TBI (OR=1.42; CI=1.06 to 1.90). Paternal personality and behavioural disorders (F60–F69) were linked with a twofold increase in risk across both categories of child TBI (OR=2.35; CI=1.41 to 3.90) and (OR=2.29; CI=1.45 to 3.61), respectively. Among the maternal mental health factors associated with child TBI, schizophrenia and other non-mood psychotic disorders (F20–F29) were associated with an increase in inpatient traumatic brain injuries (iTBI) (OR=1.78; 1.22 to 2.59). Mothers having mood disorders (F30–F39) were more likely to have had a child who experienced an iTBI (OR=1.64; CI=1.20 to 2.22). Mothers with personality and behavioural disorders (F60–F69) were also found to have had children with an increased risk for iTBI (OR=2.30; CI=1.14 to 3.65).ConclusionTaken together, these data should call attention to methods and strategies designed to augment and support caregiving environments with modalities that can foster mutually supportive households in cooperation with parents who have been diagnosed with a mental disorder.
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22
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Olsson M, Lundberg T, Fürst CJ, Öhlén J, Forinder U. Psychosocial Well-Being of Young People Who Participated in a Support Group Following the Loss of a Parent to Cancer. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK IN END-OF-LIFE & PALLIATIVE CARE 2017; 13:44-60. [PMID: 28140778 DOI: 10.1080/15524256.2016.1261755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite the evidence of unmet support needs among young people who have lost a parent to cancer, only a few support group initiatives have been reported. This observational prospective study explored the psychosocial well-being of young people who participated in support groups at a Swedish specialist palliative care setting. On three occasions, 29 participants, aged 16-28 years, answered questionnaires covering characteristics of the participants, circumstances of the losses, psychosocial well-being of the young people, and their own assessment of the support groups. The support groups attracted mostly young women who were often unprepared for the loss. The living arrangements differed between younger and older participants; however, the loss-related variables did not differ. Significant positive changes were found regarding a sense of meaning in their future life and life satisfaction. The helpfulness of the group was assessed as high/very high and the group brought a valuable fellowship with others in a similar situation. Universality and beneficial interactions were reported and strengthened psychosocial well-being developed over time. This change, according to the young people themselves, may be attributed to the group support. The findings are useful for planning interventions to support young people in bereavement in order to enhance their psychosocial well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariann Olsson
- a Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society , Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
- b Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Tina Lundberg
- a Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society , Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
- c Palliative Research Centre , Ersta Sköndal University College , Stockholm , Sweden
- d Department of Social Work , Karolinska University Hospital , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Carl Johan Fürst
- e Department of Clinical Sciences , Lund University , Lund , Sweden
| | - Joakim Öhlén
- f Institute of Health Care Sciences, University of Gothenburg Centre for Person-Centred Care , University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg
| | - Ulla Forinder
- a Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society , Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
- d Department of Social Work , Karolinska University Hospital , Stockholm , Sweden
- g Department of Social Work and Psychology , Gävle University , Gävle , Sweden
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23
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Hirooka K, Fukahori H, Ozawa M, Akita Y. Differences in posttraumatic growth and grief reactions among adolescents by relationship with the deceased. J Adv Nurs 2016; 73:955-965. [DOI: 10.1111/jan.13196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kayo Hirooka
- Graduate School of Health Care Sciences; Tokyo Medical and Dental University; Bunkyo-ku Tokyo Japan
| | - Hiroki Fukahori
- Graduate School of Health Care Sciences; Tokyo Medical and Dental University; Bunkyo-ku Tokyo Japan
| | - Miwa Ozawa
- Department of Pediatrics; St Luke's International Hospital; Chuo-ku Japan
| | - Yumi Akita
- Graduate School of Human Health Sciences; Tokyo Metropolitan University; Tokyo Japan
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24
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Rostila M, Berg L, Arat A, Vinnerljung B, Hjern A. Parental death in childhood and self-inflicted injuries in young adults-a national cohort study from Sweden. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2016; 25:1103-11. [PMID: 26932156 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-016-0833-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that parental death influences health and mortality in bereaved offspring. To date, few studies have examined whether exposure to parental bereavement in childhood is associated with suicidality later in life. The aim of the present research was to investigate whether parental death during childhood influences self-inflicted injuries/poisoning in young adulthood. A national cohort born during 1973-1982 (N = 871,402) was followed prospectively in the National Patient Discharge Register from age 18 to 31-40 years. Cox regression analyses of proportional hazards, with adjustment for socio-demographic confounders and parental psychosocial covariates, were used to test hypotheses regarding parental loss and hospital admission due to self-inflicted injuries/poisoning. Parental deaths were divided into deaths caused by (1) external causes/substance abuse and (2) natural causes. Persons who had lost a parent to an external cause/substance abuse-related death had the highest risk of being admitted to a hospital for a self-inflicted injury/poisoning; HRs 2.03 (1.67-2.46) for maternal death and 2.03 (1.84-2.25) for paternal death, after adjustment for socio-demographic confounders and risk factors among surviving parents. Risks were also increased for parental death due to natural causes, but at a lower level: 1.19 (1.01-1.39) and 1.28 (1.15-1.43), respectively. Losing a father before school age was associated with a higher risk of hospital admission for a self-inflicted injury/poisoning than was loss at an older age for both genders. Maternal loss before school age was associated with a higher risk only for men, particularly maternal death by natural causes (p < 0.01).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikael Rostila
- Centre for Health Equity Studies, Stockholm University/Karolinska Institutet, Sveavägen 160, 10691, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Lisa Berg
- Centre for Health Equity Studies, Stockholm University/Karolinska Institutet, Sveavägen 160, 10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Arzu Arat
- Centre for Health Equity Studies, Stockholm University/Karolinska Institutet, Sveavägen 160, 10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bo Vinnerljung
- Department of Social Work, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Hjern
- Centre for Health Equity Studies, Stockholm University/Karolinska Institutet, Sveavägen 160, 10691, Stockholm, Sweden.,Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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25
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Bylund-Grenklo T, Fürst CJ, Nyberg T, Steineck G, Kreicbergs U. Unresolved grief and its consequences. A nationwide follow-up of teenage loss of a parent to cancer 6-9 years earlier. Support Care Cancer 2016; 24:3095-103. [PMID: 26899858 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-016-3118-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The early loss of a parent is a tragedy and a serious life event. This study investigated grief resolution and morbidity in cancer-bereaved teenagers 6 to 9 years after the loss of a parent to cancer. METHODS In a nationwide population-based study of 622 of 851 (73 %) youths who as teenagers 6 to 9 years earlier had lost a parent to cancer, we explored the magnitude of unresolved grief and its association with psychological and physiological morbidity. Participants answered a study-specific anonymous questionnaire including questions about if they had worked through their grief and about their current health. RESULTS Six to nine years post-loss 49 % reported unresolved grief (8 % no and 41 % a little grief resolution). They had, in comparison with youths reporting resolved grief, statistically significantly elevated risks, e.g. for insomnia (sons' relative risk (RR) 2.3, 95 % CI 1.3-4.0; daughters' RR 1.7, 95 % CI 1.1-2.7), fatigue (sons' RR 1.8, 95 % CI 1.3-2.5; daughters' RR 1.4, 95 % CI 1.1-1.7) and moderate to severe depression, i.e. score >9, PHQ-9 (sons' RR 3.6, 95 % CI 1.4-8.8; daughters' RR 1.8, 95 % CI 1.1-3.1). Associations remained for insomnia in sons, exhaustion in daughters and fatigue in both sons and daughters when depression, negative intrusive thoughts and avoiding reminders of the parents' disease or death were included in a model. CONCLUSIONS Approximately half of cancer-bereaved youth report no or little grief resolution 6 to 9 years post-loss, which is associated with fatigue, sleeping problems and depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Bylund-Grenklo
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Q6:05 Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-17176, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Palliative Centre, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Sweden.
| | - C J Fürst
- Department of Oncology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - T Nyberg
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - G Steineck
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Oncology, Division of Clinical Cancer Epidemiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - U Kreicbergs
- Ersta Sköndal University College, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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26
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Supporting youth grieving the dying or death of a sibling or parent: considerations for parents, professionals, and communities. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care 2015; 9:58-63. [PMID: 25581448 DOI: 10.1097/spc.0000000000000115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this article is to highlight considerations for parents, professionals, and communities regarding supporting children and adolescents who are grieving the dying or death of a parent or sibling. RECENT FINDINGS Current research is directly engaging the voices of youth who have experienced a parent or sibling's death. Although there continues to be much evidence about the distressing effect of such deaths on children and adolescents, there is a welcome emerging tendency to distinguish between adaptive and maladaptive grief. Although the literature strongly encourages parents to take an open and honest approach to supporting youth prior to a death, many barriers remain to them doing so. The literature identifies healthcare providers as being ideally positioned to provide guidance to families around best practice in the area of preparing youth for the death of a parent or sibling. Following a death, there is now encouraging evidence regarding the efficacy of certain interventions for bereaved youth, both in the short and long term, which is an important development in the field. SUMMARY Youth benefit from being involved in open and honest conversations about a family member's cancer diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and end-of-life care. Although advances are being made with regard to understanding the grief experience of youth, there remains a wide gap between the current theoretical knowledge and the availability of practical well informed support for grieving youth.
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27
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to generate an explanatory model of the coping strategies that adolescents employ to manage the stressors they experience in the final months of their ill parent's life and shortly after their death. METHOD The sample included 26 families of adolescents with a parent receiving care in a large hospice program in northeastern Ohio. A semistructured interview was conducted with 14 ill parents, 17 well parents/guardians, and 30 of their adolescent children before the parent's death and, additionally, with 6 of these families after the death. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a grounded-theory approach. RESULTS The participants described two worlds that constituted the lives of the adolescents: the well world of normal adolescence and the ill world of having a parent near the end of life. The adolescents experienced a common challenge of living in two worlds and responded to the challenge with a process we labeled "managing two worlds." Five stages through which adolescents manage their worlds were identified: keeping the ill world and the well world separate; having the ill world intrude into the well world; moving between the ill world and the well world; being immersed in the ill world; and returning to the well world having been changed by the ill world. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS The explanatory model of "managing two worlds" outlines a complex and nuanced process that changes over time. The model can be used by health professionals who seek to help adolescents navigate this critical time when their parents are dying or have recently died. These results can also be used to inform the development of interventions that assist families with strategies tailored to an adolescent's specific needs. Future research should investigate associations among the process of "managing two worlds" and outcomes related to adolescent bereavement.
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Bylund-Grenklo T, Kreicbergs U, Uggla C, Valdimarsdóttir UA, Nyberg T, Steineck G, Fürst CJ. Teenagers want to be told when a parent's death is near: A nationwide study of cancer-bereaved youths' opinions and experiences. Acta Oncol 2015; 54:944-50. [PMID: 25467964 DOI: 10.3109/0284186x.2014.978891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to investigate cancer-bereaved youths' opinions and experiences of being told about a parent's imminent death from cancer and of barriers to this communication. MATERIAL AND METHODS This nationwide population-based survey included 622/851 (73%) youths (aged 18-26) who at age 13-16, 6-9 years earlier had lost a parent to cancer. RESULTS In total 595 of 610 (98%) of the participants stated that teenage children should be informed when the parent's death was imminent (i.e. a matter of hours or days, not weeks). 59% stated that they themselves had been told this, 37% by the parents, 7% by parents and healthcare professionals together and 8% by professionals only. Frequent reasons for why the teenager and parents did not talk about imminent death before loss were that one (n=106) or both (n=25) of the parents together with the teenage child had pretended that the illness was not that serious, or that none of the parents had been aware that death was imminent (n=80). Up to a couple of hours before the loss, 43% of participants had not realized that death was imminent. CONCLUSION In this population-based study virtually all youth who at ages 13-16 had lost a parent to cancer afterwards stated that teenagers should be told when loss is near, i.e. a matter of hours or days, not weeks. Many stated that they had not been given this information and few were informed by professionals, with implications for future improvements in end-of-life care of patients with teenage children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tove Bylund-Grenklo
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
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Fuentes S, Blasco T. Padres diagnosticados de cáncer: malestar emocional y recursos para comunicarse con sus hijos meno. PSICOONCOLOGIA 1970. [DOI: 10.5209/psic.57082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objetivo: Conocer los recursos que poseen los padres afectados por cáncer al comunicar la enfermedad a sus hijos menores y su relación con el malestar emocional de estos pacientes. Método: Se evaluó el estilo de comunicación familiar mediante una subescala del FAD (Mc Master Family Assessment Device). Se elaboró un cuestionario específico para evaluar los recursos de los pacientes, donde cada ítem era valorado con una escala de 0 a 10 (siendo 0 nada en absoluto y 10, la máxima puntuación posible). También se utilizó una escala numérica de valoración del malestar emocional, en forma de un solo ítem (0-10). El conjunto de pruebas se aplicó a 60 pacientes de edades comprendidas entre los 34 y los 60 años todos ellos padres afectados de cáncer con hijos menores a su cargo. Resultados: Los recursos que parecen poseer en mayor medida los padres evaluados son los recursos relacionados con la gestión de la vida doméstica (media = 8,3), seguidos de los que hacen referencia a delegar a terceras personas los cuidados de sus hijos durante momentos difíciles. Al analizar con más profundidad estos dos recursos, detectamos que más del 80% de los padres de la muestra poseen el recurso relacionado con la gestión de la vida doméstica. Por el contrario, el recurso de como informar sobre la situación de enfermedad a los niños, lo tiene poco más de la mitad de los pacientes evaluados (55%). Los datos indican que existe una relación inversa entre la disponibilidad de este recurso y el nivel de malestar emocional, ya que los pacientes que consideran tener recursos para hablar de la enfermedad a sus hijos, presentan un menor malestar emocional. Conclusiones: Los padres recién diagnosticados de cáncer que plantean comunicar la situación de enfermedad a sus hijos menores, poseen más recursos para gestionar la vida doméstica y delegar el cuidado de sus hijos cuando lo precisan a terceras personas, que para informar sobre la enfermedad y sostener emocionalmente a sus hijos. Así mismo, el no disponer de recursos para comunicar el diagnóstico a los hijos se asocia con una mayor presencia de malestar emocional.
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