Expressive Writing for Caregivers of Persons With Cancer

Launched by ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY · May 5, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how expressive writing can help caregivers of people with cancer feel better emotionally and improve their quality of life. Caregivers often face a lot of stress and emotional challenges while supporting their loved ones, and this study aims to find out if writing about their feelings in a supportive group setting can make a positive difference. Participants will take part in four videoconference sessions, where they will write about their thoughts and feelings related to their caregiving experience and discuss their reflections with others in the group.

To join the study, you need to be at least 18 years old and be an informal caregiver for someone diagnosed with certain types of cancer within the last two years. You should also be comfortable speaking and understanding English and have access to a device like a computer or smartphone with internet. Participants will be randomly assigned to either start the writing sessions right away or wait for their turn. Throughout the trial, researchers will compare mood and quality of life before and after the sessions to see how effective the writing intervention is. This study is currently recruiting participants, and anyone interested can learn more to see if they qualify.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age 18 years or older
• • Self-identify as informal caregiver for an adult (age 18+) diagnosed with stage II-IV breast, ovarian, prostate, colon, rectal, or lung cancer within the past 2 years
• • English speaking and comprehending
• • Access to a desktop computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone and Wireless Fidelity (WIFI) to complete surveys and participate in videoconference-based expressive writing sessions
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • -Caregiver for pediatric cancer patient