A follow-up of psychological state in relatives of cancer patients one year after the patient's death. Effects of an activation programme.

A follow-up of psychological state in relatives of cancer patients twelve months after the patient's death was carried out in a controlled study. Relatives who were offered an activation programme (activation group) were compared with relatives not offered this programme (comparison group). A translation of Holland and Sgroi's standardized rating schedule for psychologic states and an interview based upon Bowlby's attachment theory were used to assess psychological outcome. Relatives in the activation group reported better mental state and less depression than those in the comparison group. Relatives in the activation group also reported fewer problems with health and anger than those in the comparison group. Furthermore, relatives in the activation group showed a more positive attitude to the care than those in the comparison group. All the differences mentioned were statistically significant.