FINANCIAL TOXICITY AND ADVERSE MENTAL-HEALTH OUTCOMES AMONG FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF CANCER PATIENTS UNDERGOING CHEMOTHERAPY: ROLE OF RESILIENCE

Abstract

Family caregivers of patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy often experience substantial financial and psychological challenges. However, resilience may serve as a protective psychological resource that reduces the adverse mental-health consequences associated with financial toxicity. The present study examined the relationship between financial toxicity and psychological distress among family caregivers of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and investigated the mediating role of resilience. A correlational research design was employed with a quantitative survey approach. A purposive sample of 107 family caregivers was recruited from Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Multan, and MINAR Cancer Hospital, Multan. Data were collected using the Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST-FACIT), Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), and Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). Pearson correlation and mediation analyses were conducted to examine associations among the study variables. Financial toxicity was significantly positively associated with psychological distress (r = .53, p < .01) and negatively associated with resilience (r = −.39, p < .01). Resilience demonstrated a strong negative association with psychological distress (r = −.69, p < .01). Moreover, resilience partially mediates the relationship of financial toxicity and adverse mental- health outcomes. Financial toxicity is associated with greater psychological distress among family caregivers of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, whereas resilience appears to function as a significant protective factor. Interventions aimed at strengthening resilience alongside addressing caregivers’ financial concerns may help reduce psychological distress and improve caregiver well-being.