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Mental health in people living with and beyond colorectal cancer: A patient‐oriented constructivist grounded theory

Authors :
Vicki Cheng
Helen McTaggart‐Cowan
Jonathan M. Loree
Rachel A. Murphy
Mikaela Barnes
Haydn Bechthold
Norman Jansen
Mary A. De Vera
Source :
Cancer Medicine, Vol 13, Iss 17, Pp n/a-n/a (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
Wiley, 2024.

Abstract

Abstract Background With the burden of colorectal cancer in Canada, there is a need to address the psycho‐oncologic challenges, including mental health. This study aims to explore the lived mental health experiences in patients with CRC across the phases of the CRC care continuum. Methods We employed a patient‐oriented constructivist grounded theory design and recruited English speaking participants ≥18 years, diagnosed with CRC within the last 10 years, residing in Canada. We collected data through semi‐structured individual interviews using a guide co‐constructed with patient research partners. Data collection and analysis were iterative, employed theoretical sampling, and culminated in a theoretical model. Results Twenty‐eight participants diagnosed with CRC (18 females, 10 males), aged 18–63 years at time of diagnosis were interviewed, with representation across all CRC stages. There were 10 participants (36%) in treatment, 12 participants (43%) in follow‐up, and 6 participants (21%) in the beyond phase. We constructed a patient‐oriented theory illustrating the dynamic nature between one's self‐identity and their mental health experiences across the CRC care continuum. Mental health experiences encompass emotional and cognitive‐behavioral responses, expressed differently across phases. Mental health care experiences are also shaped by barriers, facilitators, and individual contextual factors, all of which influence their access to care. Conclusion Our theory provides insight into the mental health experiences of patients with CRC across phases of the CRC care continuum. Understanding patients' emotional and cognitive‐behavioral responses and care experiences can help identify opportunities to integrate mental health into CRC care.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20457634
Volume :
13
Issue :
17
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Cancer Medicine
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.133ecded927a4f8687f89713f8e30c4a
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1002/cam4.70203