Behavioral Activation impacts symptoms of depression and anxiety, psychological distress, and quality of life among colorectal cancer patients in medical settings

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The protracted treatment of colorectal cancer often leads to diminished quality of life and the manifestation of psychological symptoms, notably depression, as patient survival increases. Behavioral Activation (BA) therapy is designed to bolster patients' reinforcement sources and diminish avoidance behaviors, thereby progressively fostering proactive engagement. This study aims to assess the influence of BA on the behavioral patterns of colorectal cancer patients, its therapeutic efficacy against negative emotions such as depression, and its impact on their quality of life. Methods:One hundred and seven colorectal cancer patients with depressive symptoms were randomized into two groups: a BA group (n=54) and a conventional treatment group (n=53). Evaluations were conducted before the intervention (T0), after the fourth intervention session (T1), and upon completion of the intervention (T2). Results:Notable differences emerged between the BA group and the conventional treatment group. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed BA’s significant efficacy in ameliorating depression (F=39.113, p<0.001, ηp²=0.439), alleviating anxiety (F=29.847, p<0.001, ηp²=0.374), enhancing quality of life (F=23.086, p<0.01, ηp²=0.316), and reducing psychological distress (F=93.684, p<0.001, ηp²=0.652). The analysis also substantiated the correlation between activation and avoidance behavioral patterns and the symptoms of depression. Conclusion:Behavioral Activation proves to be a potent intervention for ameliorating depressive and other adverse emotional states, as well as for enhancing the quality of life among colorectal cancer patients. It effectively modifies the behavioral patterns of patients undergoing conventional treatments within clinical settings. Trial registration number: ChiCTR2100052108, 10/17/2021.