Ram, S., Narayanasamy, R., & Barua, A. (2013). Effectiveness of group psycho-education on well-being and depression among breast cancer survivors of Melaka, Malaysia. Indian Journal of Palliative Care, 19(1), 34–39.
Determine the effectiveness of group psycho-education on well-being and depression among breast cancer survivors in Malaysia
In this cluster, non-randomized trial conducted over a one-month period, 34 adult women with non-metastatic breast cancer participated in a group psycho-education class on well-being status and depression. The class was designed to inform and discuss cancer and treatment. They were evaluated with a pre/post-test questionnaire, as well as a pretest socio-demographic questionnaire.
PHASE OF CARE: Active antitumor treatment
Cluster, non-randomized trial
The study showed that psycho-education decreased depression and increased the state of well-being among participants. Post-test results significantly improved for three of the five items on the WHO-5 Well-being Index.
Psycho-education may be one way to improve the overall well-being of patients diagnosed with breast cancer. More research is needed with larger numbers and a multi-site setting to validate improved well-being.
Psycho-education may be one way to improve the overall well-being of patients diagnosed with breast cancer, but as nursing professionals, taking a holistic approach to patient care and recognizing and addressing other contributing factors, such as biological and social factors, are important.