The Meaning of Life Behind Stress: A Phenomenological Exploration of Mindfulness Practices among Caregivers of Cancer Patients in East Java

Fitri Inayah (Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya)
Aliffia Ananta (Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya)

Formosa Journal of Applied Sciences (FJAS)
Vol. 4 No. 5 (2025): May 2025

This study examines the high levels of stress experienced by caregivers of cancer patients at the Indonesian Cancer Foundation in East Java, resulting from physical, emotional, and social burdens, as well as the lack of structured psychological support. Employinga qualitative phenomenological approach, this research explores caregivers’ subjective experiences through in-depth interviews and participant observation, and analyzes the data using Colaizzi’s method. Mindfulness, based on Kabat-Zinn’s (2003) theory, was implemented as an intervention, with indicators including present-moment awareness, acceptance, non-judgmental attitude, and self-compassion. The results show that mindfulness training significantly enhances self-awareness, reduces emotional reactivity, and fosters acceptance and self-compassion among caregivers. This intervention strengthens adaptive capacities in coping with stress, improves caregivers’ quality of life, and enhances the quality of patient care.