The Effect of Benson’s Relaxation Technique on Coping Strategies Among Informal Caregivers of Cancer Patients

Abstract

Background Informal caregivers of cancer patients often experience high levels of stress and burden, leading to the adoption of ineffective coping strategies. This can result in psychological problems for the caregivers and inadequate care provision. Objective This study aimed to investigate the impact of Benson’s relaxation technique (BRT) on coping strategies among informal caregivers of cancer patients. Interventions/Methods This open-label randomized clinical trial enrolled 113 caregivers visiting the radiotherapy and chemotherapy departments of Vasei Hospital in Sabzevar, Iran, who scored ≥48 on the Novak and Guest Caregiver Burden Inventory. The participants were randomly allocated to either the intervention group or the control group. The intervention group received BRT, with participants performing the technique twice a day for 20 minutes each time over a 1-month period. The control group did not receive any intervention. Coping strategies were assessed using Endler and Parker’s coping strategies inventory. Results The findings of the study revealed that the intervention group showed an increase in the utilization of problem-oriented coping strategies (P = .076) and a decrease in the utilization of emotion-oriented coping strategies (P < .001) and avoidance-oriented coping strategies in the intervention group compared with the control group (P = .004). Conclusions Findings suggest that BRT, as a cost-effective and nonpharmacological intervention, effectively reduces the reliance on emotion-oriented and avoidance-oriented coping strategies among informal caregivers of cancer patients. Implications for Practice Healthcare professionals working in oncology settings are encouraged to incorporate BRT into their care practices.