Garland, S. N., Tamagawa, R., Todd, S. C., Speca, M., & Carlson, L. E. (2013). Increased mindfulness is related to improved stress and mood following participation in a mindfulness-based stress reduction program in individuals with cancer. Integrative Cancer Therapies, 12, 31–40.
To examine the effects of a mindfulness-based stress-reduction therapy (MBSRT) on stress and mood disturbances and to examine the relationship of improved mindfulness and mood changes.
Hospital staff referred patients to the study or patients self-referred to the study. MBSRT consisted of eight weekly sessions and a six-hour silent retreat held after the sixth session. Classes taught participants about the mind-body connection, principles of mindfulness, and yoga practice. Patients were encouraged to share experiences to generate support from group members. All were given CDs with guided meditation exercises, and all received a program manual. Patients were encouraged to practice meditation and mindful movement at least 45 minutes per day. Patients who did not attend at least five sessions were excluded from the analysis.
Patients were undergoing the transition phase after active treatment.
The study used a pre-/posttest design.
The findings supported the use of MBSRT approaches for managing the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
The findings suggested that a stress-reduction intervention involving group support, yoga, and mindfulness may help patients manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and fatigue. The various study limitations prevented firm conclusions from being drawn.