A Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program for Improving Mental Health Outcomes for Underserved Cancer Patients in Minnesota

A Pilot Study of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in Patients With Cancer Experiencing Stress Who Live in Underserved and Rural Regions of Minnesota

This clinical trial evaluates whether a virtual stress reduction program that uses mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) techniques works to improve mental health outcomes in cancer patients living in underserved/rural regions of Minnesota. 80% of Minnesota counties are considered mental health care shortage areas. This shortage disproportionately impacts Minnesotans living in underserved and rural regions as they have to travel further for mental health care services. Interventions that provide patients with mental health resources from the comfort of their own home help to reduce barriers that limit access to mental health care. MBSR courses can help patients control their responses to stressful events, reduce the impact of chronic stress, develop more effective ways to cope with medical/psychological conditions, and increase overall sense of well-being. MBSR courses may serve as a way to bridge the gap between mental health care and patients with cancer living in underserved/rural regions of Minnesota.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with a history of cancer, or currently have cancer
• Patients reporting > 4/10 emotional distress on a 0-10 scale within the past six months
• Patients with a Rural-Urban Commuting Area (RUCA) code of 4 or greater
• Have a computer or smartphone
• Willing to complete questionnaires

Exclusion Criteria:

• Non-English-speaking patients
• Life expectancy < 12 months
• Active psychiatric disease