Mindfulness-Based Therapy for Breast Cancer

This trial aims to help women with breast cancer manage challenging symptoms such as insomnia, fatigue, stress, and pain. It tests a mindfulness-based therapy called Nite2Day, which teaches relaxation and coping techniques in six remote sessions. These sessions aim to improve sleep and daytime comfort. Women diagnosed with breast cancer in the past year who experience sleep issues might be suitable candidates. Participants can learn valuable skills and contribute to research that may benefit other cancer patients in the future. As an unphased trial, participants may gain personal benefits while advancing research for future cancer care.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on mindfulness and therapy sessions, so you might not need to change your medication routine, but it's best to confirm with the study team.

Research has shown that mindfulness-based therapy, combined with cognitive-behavioral techniques, is safe and can help manage symptoms in women with breast cancer. For example, one study found that this therapy improved sleep quality and reduced stress, anxiety, and depression in women. Another study showed that remotely delivered mindfulness therapy significantly reduced fatigue in cancer survivors. These studies reported no serious side effects, suggesting the treatment is well-tolerated. The therapies focus on teaching skills to manage sleep problems and daytime symptoms, which has helped many participants without causing harm.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about Mindfulness-Based Therapy for Insomnia with Cognitive-Behavioral Symptom Coping Skills, known as Nite2Day, because it offers a non-pharmacological approach to managing insomnia in breast cancer patients. Unlike traditional treatments that often rely on medication, Nite2Day focuses on teaching mindfulness-based sleep strategies and behavioral symptom management techniques. This method empowers patients to manage their symptoms through mindfulness practices, potentially reducing side effects and improving overall well-being. By providing a structured, skill-based intervention over just six weeks, it aims to offer a sustainable and holistic alternative to medication-based therapies.

Research has shown that mindfulness-based therapies can assist people with breast cancer who experience sleep difficulties and other symptoms. One study found that about 60% of patients with moderate to severe insomnia improved to having little to no insomnia after treatment. These therapies have also enhanced sleep quality for cancer patients. Additionally, they help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which are common among breast cancer patients. This trial will evaluate the effectiveness of the Nite2Day intervention, which combines mindfulness-based sleep strategies with cognitive-behavioral symptom coping skills, to manage sleep issues and other daytime symptoms.³⁶⁷⁸⁹