Depression of Family Caregivers of Patients With Disorders of Consciousness: A Systematic Review

Objectives The main purpose of this study was to systematically analyze the state of depression among family caregivers of patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) and explore the influencing factors of depression. Data Sources A systematic review. English‐language articles published from January 1, 1994, to July 1, 2024, were searched using Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and MEDLINE databases. Study Selection The study selected for review had to assess the level of depression, or the predictors of depression, among family caregivers of DoC patients. Results A total of 18 studies, encompassing 2155 participants, met the predetermined inclusion criteria. Depending on the study, 15.5%–82.6% of these caregivers of DoC patients reported depression. Eight studies showed that positive coping strategies (e.g., acceptance and problem‐focused strategies) predicted lower levels of depression. Two longitudinal studies showed a significant decrease in depression over time. Two of the four studies that discussed gender showed a greater prevalence of depression in female caregivers than in males. In addition, low quality of life, poor social support, unmet emotional support needs, and financial problems increase the level of depression. Conclusion Family caregivers are suffering from depression. Duration of illness (i.e., DoC), gender of family caregivers, coping strategies, and social support influenced the proportion of depression symptoms. These results open the path to the study of interventions aiming to support the mental health of family caregivers of DoC patients and considering these influences. Improving the mental health of family caregivers could ultimately allow an increase in the quality of life of patients and promote their recovery.