Mental health and wellbeing in mesothelioma: a qualitative study exploring what helps the wellbeing of those living with this illness and their informal carers

Purpose

Mesothelioma is an incurable, asbestos related cancer with a poor prognosis. Little is known about how patients and carers living with the condition manage their mental health and wellbeing needs. This paper reports findings on interventions being used by patients and informal carers living with mesothelioma and those which they find most helpful.

Methods

In-depth interviews with patients (n = 10) and (informal) carers (n = 11) living with mesothelioma in the UK. We analysed our data inductively using a reflexive thematic analysis approach.

Results

Participants described the importance of both smaller and larger actions and strategies which helped with their mental health. This included spending more time with family and friends and going on holidays. Professionals who participants said supported their mental health journey included not only specialist nurses and mental health professionals but also legal and Asbestos Support Group professionals. The latter demonstrates the unique needs and support required for this population. Exposure to asbestos as the cause of mesothelioma, has led to a social justice aspect of the experience of living with this cancer. Participants reported the importance of collective action to their mental health and wellbeing. The data indicate that patients and carers may have distinct mental health and wellbeing requirements and need to manage these in different ways at different times.

Conclusions

Findings have implications for nurses and other key professionals working in healthcare, community and legal settings supporting this client group, and for those living with mesothelioma who want to understand ways to enhance their own wellbeing.