Description of Depression in Caregivers of Nasopharyngeal Cancer Patients Treated at Prof. Dr. I.G.N.G. Ngoerah Hospital

Abstract

Caregivers of patients with nasopharyngeal cancer are at risk of psychological burdens, including depression, anxiety, and stress. Long-term caregiving responsibilities, emotional strain, and limited social support can negatively affect their mental health. Evidence on the psychological conditions of caregivers of nasopharyngeal cancer patients in Indonesia remains limited, highlighting the need for descriptive data to support clinical decision-making. This study is descriptive cross-sectional study involving 50 caregivers selected using consecutive sampling. Data were collected using demographic questionnaires, the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). Data were analyzed descriptively using SPSS.  Most caregivers were middle adults (54% aged 36–55), predominantly male (56%), and mainly spouses or parents of patients. Based on BDI-II, 72% had minimal depression, 12% mild, and 16% moderate. DASS-21 results showed 78% had normal depression, 10% mild, and 10% moderate; anxiety levels were more varied with 36% experiencing moderate anxiety; stress levels remained mostly normal (88%). Caregivers of nasopharyngeal cancer patients generally exhibit low levels of depression and stress, although a notable proportion experience moderate anxiety. These findings highlight the need for early psychological screening and supportive interventions for caregivers in oncology settings.