Disease Burden and Coping Strategies of Spouses of Patients with Psoriasis: A Qualitative Study

Min Wu,1,2,* Sining Zeng,3,* Yi Zhang,1,2,* Yanru Liu,1,2 Bingbing Li,1,2 Xuemei Yi,1,2 Yuling Shi,1,2 Xiaoping Zhu3 1Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200443, People’s Republic of China; 2Institute of Psoriasis, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200443, People’s Republic of China; 3Nursing Department, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Xiaoping Zhu, Nursing Department, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 301 Yanchang Middle Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-021-66300588, Fax +86-021-66307542, Email xiaopingzhu0424@163.com Yuling Shi, Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 1278 Baode Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-021-36803020, Fax +86-021-36803021, Email shiyuling1973@tongji.edu.cnBackground: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory skin condition characterized by erythema, papules, and scales. It imposes a heavy psychological and social strain on both patients and their families. Surprisingly, there’s limited research delving into the disease burden and coping strategies of spouses contending with psoriasis.Objective: The objective is to explore the disease burden faced and coping strategies utilized by spouses of individuals living with psoriasis. This exploration aims to offer insights crucial for devising mental health support and intervention strategies.Methods: The research methodology employed in this study was phenomenological, a qualitative approach. A total of fifteen spouses of patients with psoriasis were selected using an objective sampling method for in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was then applied to the recorded interview data to derive meaningful themes.Results: This study has identified and analyzed three core themes concerning the disease burden and coping strategies of spouses of patients with psoriasis: Overwhelming disease burden; Lack of support system; Coping strategies (Problem - centered coping strategies: Proactive acquisition of disease knowledge; Active confrontation of illness - related issues; Behavioral habit alteration; and Emotional - centered coping strategies: Active acceptance and normalization; Passive acceptance and internalized stigma; Avoidance of disease - related problems).Conclusion: This study adds valuable insights into comprehending the disease burden encountered by spouses of patients with psoriasis and sheds light on the coping strategies they employ. Healthcare providers should proactively recognize and address the burden experienced by spouses early on. Establishing a robust support network is crucial, and promoting adaptive coping strategies can significantly aid spouses in effectively navigating and managing the complexities associated with psoriasis.Keywords: psoriasis, spouse, disease burden, coping strategies, qualitative research