Relationship Between Depressive Symptoms and Quality of Life in Family Caregivers of Dependent Children: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

Background

Caring for dependent children with chronic illnesses or disabilities constitutes a major public health challenge, subjecting family caregivers to prolonged physical and emotional stressors.

Objectives

To quantitatively synthesize the relationship between depressive symptomatology and quality of life (QoL) in this population.

Methods

A systematic review methodology with meta-analysis was conducted following PRISMA guidelines and Cochrane handbook recommendations. Databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, PsycInfo and Scopus were consulted up to February 2026.

Results

Thirty-three original studies evaluating family caregivers of children under 18 years of age and reporting statistical data of association were included. The meta-analysis revealed a statistically significant moderate-to-strong negative association between depressive symptoms and overall QoL (r = -0.532; I2 = 9.51%), maintaining similar values across all analyzed domains (physical, mental, social and environmental) as well as the summary components of the SF-36 questionnaire. According to the GRADE criteria, the overall certainty of evidence was rated as low to very low across all QoL domains and SF-36 components.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that heightened depressive symptomatology is substantially associated with compromised well-being among family caregivers.