The impact of integrative psychotherapy on psychological well-being and quality of life in patients with breast cancer undergoing active treatment.

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of individual integrative psychotherapy on patients with breast cancer undergoing active treatment. A total of 23 patients diagnosed with breast cancer and treated at the Oncology Department of Sf. Ap. Andrei Clinical Emergency County Hospital, Galati, Romania, participated in the study. The psychotherapy sessions were conducted weekly for each patient, and family counseling sessions were held twice a month over 6 months. Three standardized psychological instruments were administered before and after therapy to evaluate the effectiveness of the psychotherapeutic intervention. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire-BR23 (QLQ-BR23) was used to assess disease-specific quality of life. The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) measured the severity of depressive symptoms, while the 16 Personality Factors Questionnaire (16PF) evaluated personality traits related to coping and emotional resilience. A comparative analysis of pre-and post-therapy results revealed significant improvements across multiple domains. Participants reported an overall improvement in quality of life, with reduced breast and arm pain. Functional well-being improved, particularly in the domains of sexuality and future perspective. The study also examined the psychological impact of different treatment modalities, including surgery and chemotherapy, and their influence on emotional adaptation. Postoperative changes in quality of life were closely monitored, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the benefits of psychotherapy in alleviating the emotional and physical burden associated with breast cancer treatment.