A Chat-Bot Based Version of the WHO-validated Intervention Self-Help+ for Stress Management in Breast Cancer Patients: Protocol for a Pilot Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Digital health interventions
• Oncology supportive care
• Mental health technology

Background:

• Digital tools are vital for supporting women's psychological well-being during cancer.
• Smartphone apps with chatbots and virtual coaches are recognized for enhancing mental health in oncology patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and utility of a mobile app (ALBA) delivering an Acceptance-Commitment Therapy (ACT)-based stress management intervention.
• To assess the potential impact of ALBA on the psychological well-being of women undergoing breast cancer treatment.
• To present the protocol for a pilot study as a proof-of-concept investigation.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving fifty women undergoing breast cancer treatment.
• Recruitment from the Breast Unit care services of Azienda Provinciale per Servizi Sanitari di Trento.
• A six-week intervention using the ALBA virtual coach, delivering one weekly coaching session and assigned ACT exercises.

Main Results:

• Anticipated high usability and engagement of the ALBA app, consistent with WHO Self-Help+ protocol.
• Expected improvements in participants' psychological well-being and quality of life.
• Quantitative and qualitative data analysis to assess feasibility, acceptability, utility, and usability.

Conclusions:

• Digital interventions show potential in delivering validated mental health support, overcoming barriers like social stigma.
• This pilot is expected to offer insights into the acceptability and usefulness of m-health psychoeducational support for breast cancer patients.
• New technologies play a promising role in supporting mental health during oncological disease.