Effectiveness of Compassion-Focused Therapy Training on Reducing Depression and Anxiety and Increasing Quality of Life in Women with Breast Cancer in Tehran

Abstract

Objective: The present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of compassion-focused therapy (CFT) training on reducing depression and anxiety and increasing the quality of life in women with breast cancer in Tehran.

Materials and Methods: This research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test, post-test, control group, and follow-up. The statistical population included all women with breast cancer undergoing treatment in Tehran hospitals in 2022. A total of 30 volunteers were selected through purposive sampling and assigned to experimental and control groups. Beck's Depression and Anxiety Inventory and the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) questionnaire were used for assessment. Pre-tests for depression, anxiety, and quality of life were administered to both groups before the intervention. The experimental group received CFT training according to an educational protocol over eight sessions, while the control group received no intervention. Post-tests were conducted for both groups after the intervention and again 45 days later.

Findings: Data were analyzed using a mixed-design analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results indicated that CFT training was effective in reducing depression and anxiety and increasing the quality of life in women, with these effects remaining stable after 45 days (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Given the effectiveness and stability of CFT training, it is recommended that health and medical centers utilize such therapeutic methods to improve the mental health of cancer patients.