JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The diagnosis and long-term treatment of cancer not only cause adversity for patients, but also they impose psychological stress and burdens on caregivers . Caregivers attend to the daily needs of patients and fulfill family responsibilities; they also serve as the patient’s primary emotional support. Because of complex treatment environments, a lack of disease-related knowledge, and significant economic burdens, caregivers often experience negative emotions such as anxiety and depression.ICBT addresses the limitations of traditional CBT by providing a discreet online platform for caregivers who may be reluctant to communicate, enabling them to access information and interact with healthcare professionals at any time. However, there is significant heterogeneity in the forms of online interventions, intervention content, and outcome indicators. Thus, we performed a scoping review to analyze relevant literature and to identify existing issues in the research. Our goal is providing references to promote the use and dissemination of ICBT among caregivers of cancer patients in China.

Objective:

(1) To provide a scoping review of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy for caregivers of cancer patients. (2) To offer references for research and clinical applications in the field of behavior therapy

Methods:

Relevant literature was systematically searched in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data, and VIP Chinese Journal Database. The search timeframe was from database inception to June 6, 2024, and the included literature was summarized and analyzed.

Results:

Twelve articles were included, with intervention content covering treatment initiation and brief introduction, cognitive education and restructuring, emotional expression and coping, cognitive restructuring and reinforcement, behavior training and activation, problem-solving techniques, communication, completion of treatment, and follow-up consolidation. The intervention providers were mainly psychotherapists, followed by social workers or clinical workers. Intervention formats included video conferences, telephone calls, online platforms, and WeChat groups. The intervention duration was 6 to 8 weeks. Outcome indicators included feasibility and acceptability, anxiety, depression, caregiver burden, and quality of life.

Conclusions:

Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy, due to its flexibility and acceptance by caregivers, can alleviate negative emotions and reduce caregiver stress. Nevertheless, there is significant heterogeneity in intervention format, duration, and outcome indicators. It is necessary to develop optimal intervention strategies and safe and effective online platforms based on the cultural background in China to improve the quality of life of caregivers.