Social support experiences of breast cancer survivors returning to work: A qualitative meta-synthesis.

Abstract

Purpose: To synthesize qualitative evidence on how women with breast cancer experience social support within the broader return-to-work process and to interpret how support operates across this transition.

Method: This qualitative meta-synthesis used Thomas and Harden's inductive thematic synthesis to integrate findings from seven databases searched from inception to 23 April 2026. Eligible qualitative and mixed-methods studies reported separately extractable qualitative findings from women with breast cancer. After inductive theme generation, an adapted framework analysis mapped support sources, functions and relationship quality; Meleis' Transition Theory was applied in a distinct, secondary interpretive step.

Results: Nineteen studies involving 325 women were included. Three analytical themes and twelve descriptive subthemes were generated: embodied and occupational vulnerability generated changing support needs; survivors negotiated multilevel support and workplace accommodations; and support shaped worker-identity reconstruction and sustainable participation. Emotional/esteem, informational, tangible and companionship support came from family, peers, colleagues, managers, healthcare professionals and institutions. Availability, recognition, conflict and the fit between need and response determined whether support facilitated or inhibited the transition.

Conclusions: Social support is not a single facilitator but a dynamic, relationship- and context-dependent process. The fit between changing support needs and the responses provided matters more than the mere presence of support. Sustainable return requires coordinated, individualized responses to changing health and job demands while preserving autonomy, competence and occupational identity.