The effect of a supportive program on coping strategies and stress in women diagnosed with breast cancer: A randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the effect of a supportive program on coping strategies and stress in women with breast cancer. Design: A randomized, two-armed, controlled trial. Methods: Sixty women were randomly allocated to intervention group (N = 30) and control group (N = 30). The interventions were held in six sessions, weekly from August 2018–March 2019 It was consisting of education regarding breast cancer; progressive muscle relaxation; stress management; emotional coping; and problem-solving strategies. Results: At baseline, there was no difference between the two groups regarding the mean score of coping strategies and stress. Supportive program group participants experienced a significantly higher increase on their problem-oriented coping strategies score in comparison with the control group. At the same time, scores in emotion-oriented coping strategies and stress decreased significantly in the intervention group compared with the control group. Result of this study can be used to develop relevant interventions targeting coping strategies to reduce stress among women with breast cancer.