Psychological Distress, Coping Strategies and Social Support in Parents of Children with Leukemia

Abstract

Background: Leukemia poses significant distress for affected children and their families, necessitating extensive parental involvement in care. Parents must manage multiple clinic visits, medication administration, and provide emotional support during treatment, impacting their psychological well-being. Objective: To assess the levels of psychological distress, coping strategies, and social support among parents of children with leukemia. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at Bolan Medical Complex and Cenar Cancer Hospital in Quetta, Baluchistan. A total of 341 parents participated, with data collected via three standardized questionnaires: the Coping Health Inventory for Parents (CHIP), Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Ethical approval was granted by the Khyber Medical University Peshawar. Results: Among the participants, 36.1% were aged 25-35 years; 61.9% were male. Educational levels were 73.9% secondary and 23.8% primary. Psychological distress was reported as moderate by 86%, while 76% utilized fair coping strategies, and 95% experienced medium social support. There was no significant correlation between psychological distress and coping strategies; however, a negative association was noted between social support and psychological distress. Conclusion: The study reveals substantial psychological distress among parents, with prevalent fair coping strategies and medium social support. Enhanced social support is negatively associated with psychological distress, highlighting the need for targeted support interventions.