Liu, C.J., Hsiung, P.C., Chang, K.J., Liu, Y.F., Wang, K.C., Hsiao, F.H., . . . Chan, C.L. (2008). A study on the efficacy of body–mind–spirit group therapy for patients with breast cancer. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 17, 2539–2549.
To examine the effects of body–mind–spirit group therapy on anxiety, depression, and well-being in women with breast cancer
The intervention was 10 group sessions based on positive psychology and forgiveness therapy to enhance physical strength, increase emotional release, and develop positive meaning of life. Specific exercises included things such as self-care planning, massage of acupuncture points, drawing, creating love cards for others, and sharing strategies.
Patients were undergoing the active treatment phase of care.
A mixed-methods study design was used: randomized controlled trial with focus group interview.
There was no difference over time for depression or well-being. The intervention group had a greater reduction in anxiety (p = 0.03) compared to the control group, with an effect size estimate of 0.56, suggesting a medium clinical significance. Qualitative analysis demonstrated that reduced anxiety was facilitated through a group process.
Results of focus group interviews demonstrated that these effects were facilitated through a group process. There were no apparent effects of the intervention on depression or well-being.
Qualitative results suggest that the main effects of the intervention were associated with provision of information and the peer group interactions. It is not clear if the philosophic foundations and exercises used in the interventions were essential to these effects.