The effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy in reducing depression and anxiety in women diagnosed with breast cancer

Abstract

Overview of the topic: The aim of this dissertation is to determine the effectiveness of CBT in reducing depression and anxiety in women with breast cancer at any stage. Breast cancer has a tendency of increasing the risk of depression and anxiety in women. Therefore, the author of this dissertation was interested in finding a way how to tackle these mental illnesses. Research Question: In Women diagnosed with Breast Cancer, is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy effective in reducing Depression and Anxiety? PICO Elements: P- Women with any stage of breast cancer, I-Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, C-No Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and O-Reduction in Depression and Anxiety. Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria: Studies focused on CBT for women diagnosed with breast cancer who were suffering or trying to prevent depression and anxiety. Studies were excluded if they included other types of cancer or other forms of therapy. Method: Studies that were carried out between 2011 and 2022 were considered in this dissertation. The following databases were used to search for the articles obtained: Hydi, Sage Journals, Springer Link, ProQuest, EbscoHost, Science Direct, and Medline. Only five articles, which were then included in this dissertation, satisfied the inclusion and exclusion requirements. The CASP tool was used to critically analyse and identify the strengths and weaknesses of the methodology used. Ethical issues were also discussed throughout the chapters. Results and Conclusion: While the majority of the evidence collected favour the use of CBT, definite conclusions cannot be drawn due to the large number of limitations present in the data collected. Implications and Recommendations: Although the chosen studies favour the effectiveness of CBT in reducing depression and anxiety in women with breast cancer, definite conclusions still could not be drawn. Therefore, additional research is required both on a national and global level. Health literacy needs to be promoted to help enhance the knowledge of healthcare professionals on the benefits of CBT. The management of nursing together with other multidisciplinary members should provide training programs to health care professionals to help them guide their patients.