Supports and interventions for carers of a person with depressive or anxiety symptomology: A systematic review

An increasing body of research demonstrates the capacity of evidence-based interventions to improve outcomes for informal carers. A review of suitable supports and interventions for carers of a person with depressive or anxiety symptomology is timely. This systematic review explores intervention suitability evidence for this carer group. Searches for relevant primary studies were conducted in six databases across a 15-year timeframe (October 2004 – October 2019). Studies were assessed and compared narratively and thematically. Qualitative themes were synthesised with quantitative studies to assess the extent to which carer preferences were embedded in interventions and study designs. The initial literature search produced 13,183 studies. Six studies – three randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and three mixed-method studies - were included following a double-blinded screening process, a review of reference lists and risk of bias assessment. Included RCTs demonstrated intervention efficacy, and the qualitative data from mixed-methods studies demonstrated carer acceptability. A synthesis of qualitative themes with quantitative studies found the themes of carer-specific needs and targeted psychoeducation were embedded in all six quantitative study designs. Current evidence for appropriate supports and interventions for this carer group is limited. The review uncovers a lack of interventions for carers of a person with anxiety symptomology and limited evidence for suitable supports for carers of a person with depressive symptomology. More research is needed to explore the needs and preferences of this carer group, and how best to support them.