INTEGRATED BUDDHIST APPROACH TO CREATING WELL-BEING FOR CAREGIVERS OF CANCER PATIENTS -

Abstract

The objectives of this dissertation are; 1) to study the problems and causes affecting happiness creation for cancer patient caregivers, 2) to examine Buddhist principles that promote happiness for cancer patient caregivers, and 3) to present guidelines for creating happiness for cancer patient caregivers. This qualitative research employed in-depth interviews with 24 key informants selected through purposive sampling, including Buddhist scholars, administrators of Panyananthaphikkhu Medical Center, Dhamma volunteers, and medical professionals/nurses/caregivers. The collected data was analyzed using content analysis and presented through descriptive research findings. The research results

 Revealed Regarding problems and causes affecting happiness creation for cancer patient caregivers, the study found that caregivers face multiple challenges, including lack of knowledge and skills in patient care, increasing economic burdens, lack of social and emotional support, and insufficient time for self-care physically, emotionally, and spiritually. These conditions lead to chronic stress, emotional exhaustion, and reduced quality of life for caregivers.

 Regarding Buddhist principles that promote happiness for cancer patient caregivers, the Four Divine States of Mind (Brahmaviharas) and the Four Paths to Success (Iddhipada) can be effectively applied. The Four Divine States include: Loving-kindness (Metta), helping caregivers develop compassion toward patients and themselves; Compassion (Karuna), facilitating understanding of patients' physical and mental pain; Sympathetic joy (Mudita), encouraging appreciation of even small improvements in treatment; and Equanimity (Upekkha), helping caregivers practice letting go of uncontrollable circumstances. The Four Paths to Success include: Aspiration (Chanda), helping caregivers find satisfaction in their duties; Effort (Viriya), supporting perseverance even when fatigued; Thoughtfulness (Citta), enhancing concentration for detailed observation of patient symptoms; and Investigation (Vimamsa), enabling caregivers to continuously improve their care methods.

 Guidelines for creating happiness for cancer patient caregivers through Buddhist integration include: 1) Developing understanding and acceptance of one's role by reframing caregiving as an opportunity for merit-making; 2) Nurturing the caregiver's physical and mental health through adequate rest, exercise, nutrition, and mindful self-reflection; 3) Applying the Four Divine States and Four Paths to Success as spiritual nourishment, along with mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom practices to reduce stress; 4) Seeking support from family and community rather than bearing burdens alone; and 5) Finding happiness in small things and meaning in caregiving, while using art, music, Dhamma, or preferred activities for self-renewal.

 The knowledge gained from this research can be applied to develop happiness enhancement programs for caregivers of cancer patients and those with other chronic diseases by integrating Buddhist principles with holistic healthcare. This integration can improve caregivers' quality of life and enable them to provide effective and sustainable patient care