The psychological effects of mesothelioma in the UK military context from the carer’s perspective: A qualitative study
APA Citation:
Sherborne, V., & Tod, A. (2024). The psychological effects of mesothelioma in the UK military context from the carer's perspective: A qualitative study. Illness, Crisis & Loss, 32(2), 171-191. https://doi.org/10.1177/10541373221122964
Focus:
Mental health
Physical health
Veterans
Branch of Service:
International Military
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Subject Affiliation:
Spouse of service member or veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Aged (65 yrs & older)
Methodology:
Qualitative Study
Authors:
Sherborne, Virginia, Tod, Angela, Taylor, Bethany
Abstract:
Mesothelioma is an incurable asbestos-related cancer with a high symptom burden. Its long lead time means cases in the military context tend to be amongst veterans. Research into the lived experience of mesothelioma is sparse. Research shows British veterans and their families are likely to have particular needs accessing health services and support. This study explored the psychological effects of mesothelioma in the UK military context from the carer's perspective. It comprised a secondary data analysis of interview data plus semi-structured interviews with family carers of UK veterans with a mesothelioma diagnosis. Themes developed included ‘Going the extra mile’; ‘Shifts in previously robust characteristics and roles’; and ‘Needing to know’. Military culture impacted both patients and carers, with participants reporting a reluctance to show weakness. Carers experienced guilt and traumatic stress symptoms. Moral injury was reported relating to carers’ interactions with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the National Health Service (NHS).
Publisher/Sponsoring Organization:
SAGE
Publication Type:
Article
Author Affiliation:
Division of Nursing and Midwifery, Health Sciences School, University of Sheffield, VS
Division of Nursing and Midwifery, Health Sciences School, University of Sheffield, AT
Division of Nursing and Midwifery, Health Sciences School, University of Sheffield, BT
Keywords:
mesothelioma, military culture, cancer
Sponsors:
The authors are grateful to Mesothelioma UK for funding this PhD study (Grant number A16097) and to the University of Sheffield for providing a Publication Scholarship.