Table 5.

Lessons learned on the long- term (experiences regarding well-being and relationship)

Long-term effects	Total n	Subtheme	Subtheme Total n	Example quote
ACT- and self-compassion-related	14	More (self-) compassionate.	11	“What is it all about? At the side of a sick partner, it is also about oneself. Yes, I see this also as a parent, you know. It is a combination of things, also in your role as an employee. As a partner too, but all of that can only happen if you stay in it also for yourself.”
		More aware of the here and now/more relaxed.	8	“Just looking at things, not specifically, but with more awareness, so to say.”
		Changing relationship with thoughts (cognitive defusion).	8	“Yes, some relaxation. At night you lie awake, and you try to remember the course and then bring some quiet to your thoughts and feelings.”
		Living in accordance with personal values.	7	“Yes, just say: ‘I don’t feel like it’ or ‘I don’t have time for that’ or ‘I won’t make time for that.’ “
		More acceptance of emotions.	6	“Through the lessons I somewhat learned to think: Yes, it is indeed very difficult and I is alright if I feel sad sometimes.”
		Better communication about what really matters.	4	“It is also good to talk about it with my husband. He doesn’t talk very easily, but thanks to the topics that were included, we also learned to really talk to each other.”
		Awareness of values in life and relationship.	4	“Especially ‘what is really important.’ One tends to easily to just continue in the same old way.”
Positivity	9	Positivity (enjoy the little things).		“It is still a source of inspiration for me, just to think about positive things and really dwell on them, like enjoying the sunshine while taking a walk and those kinds of things. Simply with real awareness.”
Connectedness	6	Spouses got closer (more connected).		“In any case it brought us together for a conversation. From both sides, so to say, with the right instruments to better understand each other and to help each other during the whole process.”
Personal growth	3	Stronger and more resilient.		“Through the course, you move forward a bit and you grow. And the essence – you know it and you keep it alive.”