The thesis explored the experiences of partners of women with a history of breast cancer. The aim of the thesis was to explore how partners of women with breast cancer experience the disease and to better understand the impact of the disease on partners. The aim was to gain a deeper insight into the experience of partners at all stages of coping with the disease and to understand the impact of breast cancer on their mental health. Six male participants, aged between 43 and 72 years, took part in the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with all of them and analysed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis method. Participants reported intense emotional distress, unmet needs and a multitude of worries experienced from the time of suspicion of illness to the survivorship period. They were constantly available to their spouses, while suppressing their own needs, experiences and distress. The partners dealt with their problems themselves, either by active confrontation or by avoidance. Partners also received social support and help, most often from the patient, close family and friends. During the research we also gained insight into their experiences and support for the patients. The partners showed a high willingness to cope with the disease and recognised the distress of the patients during treatment, especially in the case of partial or total breast loss. They provided their spouses with various forms of emotional and instrumental support. During the breast cancer survivorship period, the partners experienced post-traumatic growth in different areas, both personally and within the partner relationship. The experience of breast cancer has radically changed their lives and their world view. The research has highlighted the strong emotional distress of partners of women with breast cancer and their need for more support and guidance to effectively help their loved ones in crisis situations and at the same time take care of their own mental health.
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