Permission to be kind to myself’. The experiences of informal carers of those with a life-limiting or terminal illness of a brief self-compassion-based self-care intervention

Diggory, KateReeves, Andrew2021-10-062021-10-062021-09-19Diggory, K., & Reeves, A. (2022). Permission to be kind to myself. The experiences of informal carers of those with a life-limiting or terminal illness of a brief self-compassion-based self-care intervention. Progress in Palliative Care, 30(3), 149-157. https://doi.org/10.1080/09699260.2021.19727220969-926010.1080/09699260.2021.1972722http://hdl.handle.net/10034/626042This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in Progress in Palliative Care on 19/09/2021, available online: https://doi.org/10.1080/09699260.2021.1972722Background: Informal carers of someone with a life-limiting or terminal illness often experience marked levels of depression, anxiety and stress. Carers have limited free time to devote to lengthy, well-being interventions. Carers also struggle to prioitorize their self-care, a factor which may help buffer some of the negative impacts of being a carer. The aim of this study was to gain insight into carers’ views and perceptions of a brief, four session face to face self-compassion intervention for carers (iCare) which was created to improve well- being, increase self-compassion and develop self-care among carers. In so doing, this qualitative research addresses gaps in the literature relating to self-compassion interventions for carers and targeted self-care initiatives for carers. Method: Semi-structured interviews with nine participants of iCare were conducted and data subjected to a reflexive thematic analysis within a critical realist framework. Findings: A number of themes and sub-themes were identified. Carers discovered a kinder, less judgemental way of seeing themselves allowing themselves to recognize that they had their own individual needs. In turn this led to an intentional practise of self-care activities. Benefits from conscious self-care and self-kindness included experiencing a greater sense of calm or relaxation and the development of a more positive outlook. Conclusion: The findings highlight that a brief self-compassion intervention can have a positive impact on carers reported well-being through developing a kindlier internal orientation and locating a permission to allow themselves to practise an intentional self-care.CC0 1.0 Universalhttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/carerslife-limiting illnessiCarecompassion-focused therapyPermission to be kind to myself’. The experiences of informal carers of those with a life-limiting or terminal illness of a brief self-compassion-based self-care interventionArticle1743-291XProgress in Palliative Care