Predicting Caregiver Anxiety and Depression From Patient Distress in Brain Tumor Dyads: Actor-Partner Interdependence Model

Objective

Malignant brain tumors place significant physical, cognitive, and emotional strain on patients and caregivers. Psychosocial distress screening is part of standard care for patients, while caregiver screening remains challenging. This study examined the association of patient psychosocial distress at diagnosis with caregiver anxiety and depression over time.

Methods

This secondary analysis used data from a prospective, single-center, observational study of malignant brain tumor dyads. To assess the association of patient psychosocial distress at diagnosis (T0) with caregiver anxiety and depression at T0 and at 3 (T1) and 6 (T2) months post-diagnosis, the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) was used.

Results

Complete data from 58 dyads were included at T0, 43 at T1, and 41 at T2. Patient distress at T0 predicted caregiver depression at T1 (β = 0.310, p = 0.007) and T2 (β = 0.322, p = 0.005), and caregiver anxiety at T2 (β = 0.303, p = 0.020). Caregiver distress at T0 did not predict patient anxiety and depression at any time point. For both patients and caregivers, distress at T0 predicted their own anxiety and depression at T0 and their anxiety at T1. For caregivers, distress at diagnosis also predicted anxiety at T2.

Conclusions

Psychosocial distress experienced by patients with malignant brain tumors at diagnosis significantly predicts their caregivers' anxiety and depression over time. Caregivers at risk of increased anxiety and depression could therefore be identified by screening for patient distress. These findings also highlight the critical need for early psychosocial support for both patients and caregivers.

Trial Registration

Retrospectively registered in the German Clinical Trial Register (10 July 2024; DRKS00034637)