Mindfulness, Stress and Depression among Women with Breast Cancer

Abstract

Breast cancer affects millions of women globally, often resulting psychological distress. This quantitative study was carried out to explore the relationship between Mindfulness, Stress and Depression among women with breast cancer. In this study the correlation research design was used. Convenient sampling strategy was used. A sample of 200 breast cancer women was taken. Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale by Krik Warren Brown & Richard M. Rayan (2003), Perceived Stress Scale by Cohen, Kamarch & Mermelstein (1983), Beck’s Depression Inventory by Aron T. Beck (1961) were used to measure mindfulness, stress and depression among women with breast cancer. The study measures the level of stress and depression at baseline, post interventions and follow up in patients. Correlation analysis by Pearson Product Moment “r” was conducted to determine the relationship of mindfulness, stress, depression. Findings indicated significant weak negative correlation of mindfulness with depression and stress. Moreover, the significant positive correlation of stress and depression. The result of the independent sample t-test indicated significant age difference in mindfulness, stress, depression. The study underscores the mindfulness practices into psychosocial care of women with breast cancer, providing a way to improve mental health outcomes by non-pharmacological approach. Future researches should investigate the long-term benefits of mindfulness and explore how different factors, such as the stage of cancer or age difference can affect coping strategies.