The Evaluation of the Adjunctive Therapeutic Value of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Therapy for Patients With Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Induced Moderate Depression.
Actas espanolas de psiquiatria May 1, 2025 DOI: 10.62641/aep.v53i3.1749
Summary
Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) therapy significantly benefits patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) experiencing moderate depression. In a study of 131 patients, those receiving MBSR reported notable improvements in psychological well-being, including reduced anxiety and enhanced quality of life. After 8 weeks, the MBSR group showed higher satisfaction rates and perceived benefits from treatment compared to the control group. Specifically, 64 patients in the MBSR group experienced marked gains in mindfulness attention awareness and overall mental health, highlighting the therapy's potential as an adjunctive treatment.
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) presents a substantial challenge for patients, impacting their physical and psychological well-being. Patients may experience moderate depression, anxiety, and reduced quality of life due to the disease and its treatments. Therefore, we retrospectively analyzed the adjunctive therapeutic potential of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) therapy for NPC patients with moderate depression. Psychological parameters were assessed using standardized scales, including the Hamilton Depression Scale-17 (HAMD-17), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), Perceived Social Support Scale (PSSS), the Short-From-12 Health Survey (SF-12), and Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS). Statistical analyses were performed to compare the two groups. A total of 131 patients including 67 patients with control group and 64 patients with Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction therapy group were included. After 8 weeks of treatment, the MBSR therapy group showed significant improvements in psychological parameters, including depression, anxiety, perceived stress, quality of life, and mindfulness attention awareness (p < 0.05), compared to the control group. Additionally, the MBSR therapy group reported significantly higher overall satisfaction with treatment, willingness to recommend treatment, and perceived benefit from treatment (p < 0.05). The study findings support the adjunctive therapeutic value of MBSR therapy in improving psychological outcomes and patient satisfaction among individuals with NPC-induced moderate depression.