Resilience and Depressive Symptoms in Patients With Breast Cancer Treated With Radiotherapy and Psychotherapy With Music Elements

Journal

European Psychiatry

Year

2019

Abstract

Background and aims.- A meta-analysis estimates that 8-24% of patients treated for cancer may experience depressive symptoms, with a high mortality rate (25%). Factors implied in the development of depression are not completely explored. Mounting evidence has shown that group music therapy (GMT) may help to prevent anxiety and depression in these patients. Objectives.- To assess depressive symptoms and resilience in patients affected by breast cancer treated with radiotherapy and to compare these features in patients randomized into two groups: GMT (Psy) and treatment as usual (Tau). Methods.- Since March 2018, a research and clinical project started, involving the Radiotherapy, Psychiatry, and Physiology Institute of the University Hospital Maggiore della Carità (Novara). Patients' inclusion criteria are: age≥18 years, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group 0-1, breast cancer diagnosis, surgically treated and then eligible for radiation therapy. Patients are asked to sign written consent to participation, which has been approved by the local ethical committee. Clinical/anamnestic information is gathered; patients are assessed with the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale and the Resilience Scale for Adults, at baseline and after completing radiotherapy. Data collection is ongoing. Results.- To date, of the 30 patients recruited, 30% have been randomized to GMT. Conclusions.- Music therapy is an effective method of supporting cancer care for patients at various stages of the disease. The evidence suggests that GMT may reduce hopelessness, anxiety, depression and increase resilience in cancer patients more than traditional treatment. It therefore seems appropriate to promote techniques of music therapy and integrated cancer care.

Music and Health Institute Terms

Anxiety; Breast Cancer; Cancer; Depression; Music Therapy; Radiation Therapy

Indexed Terms

breast cancer; cancer patient; cancer radiotherapy; depression; psychotherapy; anxiety; cancer diagnosis; cancer staging; clinical assessment; conference abstract; controlled study; hopelessness; human; meta analysis; Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale; mortality rate; prevention; psychiatry; radiotherapy; randomized controlled trial (topic); Resilience Scale for Adults; university hospital

Study Type

Meta-Analysis; Quantitative Methods

Document Type

Article

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