Mindfulness for Breast Cancer

Mindfulness Training to Improve Well-being in Post-Treatment Breast Cancer Patients

The primary purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) vs. Treatment as Usual (TAU) for depression and anxiety symptoms in breast cancer patients in recovery. Investigators will examine whether MBCT-related improvements in sleep quality, illness-related distress, and rumination (escalating cycles of negative thinking) predict MBCT-related decreases in depression and anxiety symptoms (Aim 2). Exploratory analyses will examine whether demographics (e.g., age, sex, race/ethnicity), individual differences (e.g., perceived stress, social support), clinical characteristics (e.g., stage/severity of diagnosis), and treatment adherence (e.g., sessions attended, hours of weekly practice) help determine for whom MBCT is most effective (Aim 3).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18 and over
• Able to speak and read English
• Diagnosis of breast cancer (any stage) for which active treatment (e.g., surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiotherapy) has been completed within 2 months to 2 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cognitive impairment or mental illness that would impair ability to provide consent or participate in the program;
• Major psychiatric disorder (e.g., psychosis, personality disorder)
• Current suicidal ideation or suicide attempt within past 3 months
• Past participation in an MBCT group