The role of social support among caregivers of people with cancer from Chinese and Arabic communities: a qualitative study

Cancer caregivers from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities have reported significant unmet emotional support needs. This study aimed explore the role of social support to manage emotional wellbeing among cancer caregivers from Arabic and Chinese communities in Australia.

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with Chinese (n = 12) and Arabic (n = 12) speaking cancer caregivers. Participants’ mean age was 40.6 years; majority were female (83%) and providing care to a parent (41.67%).

Using thematic analysis to analyse interview data, five overarching themes emerged describing caregivers’ perspectives on social support. Themes were related to the following: (1) receiving emotional support from social networks, (2) barriers to accessing emotional support from social networks, (3) isolation and loss of connection following the cancer diagnosis, (4) faith as a source of support, and (5) utility of support groups and caregiver advocates. Several caregivers relied on social networks for emotional support; however, caregivers identified key cultural and generational barriers to seeking support from their social networks which prevented caregivers from disclosing their emotions and caregiving situation. Caregivers also reported being isolated from their support system.

Empirical testing of culturally appropriate strategies that improve social support seeking among caregivers from CALD communities is recommended.