Quality of Life Changes through Risk Factors Reduction Focused Psychotherapy in Cancer Diagnosed Patients

摘要

One of the main goals of psychotherapy in patients diagnosed with cancer that have to fight with anxiety, depression, social and occupational adjustment difficulties, is increasing the life quality. Risk factor focused psychotherapy seems a good therapeutic option in a vulnerable population for developing affective disorders and self-aggressive behaviors. We included in a 3 months weekly sessions program of cognitive psychotherapy a number of 16 patients diagnosed with malignant tumors. The assessment included Cancer Coping Questionnaire (CCQ)- 21 items version and the dysfunctional beliefs monitoring throughout all the 3 months. Therapy focused on working with "realistic" negative automatic thoughts, attention switch on resources instead of loses, stimulating emotional expression of frustration or anger and involving in planning activities. We considered that risk factors for maintaining or worsening affective symptoms are these negative cognitions and, therefore, a therapeutic strategy centered upon cognitive restructuring should be recommended in these patients. Inclusion criteria; CCQ baseline value under 42, anxiety and/or depressive symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. Results: All patients that have reached the endpoint improved their cognitive approach to disease because their coping methods improved and dysfunctional beliefs decreased in frequency and strength. Cognitive therapy focused upon alleviating risk factors for depression is a useful approach in cancer diagnosed patients, helping them to concentrate on resources, activities and relational support.