Impact of a Single Art Therapy Session on Mood and Symptom Burden in Palliative Care

Launched by NOVA SCOTIA HEALTH AUTHORITY · Apr 10, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at the effects of a single art therapy session on the mood and symptom relief of adults receiving palliative care in a Canadian hospital. Palliative care focuses on providing comfort and improving the quality of life for patients facing serious illnesses. The study aims to find out if participating in a 30 to 60-minute art therapy session can help reduce feelings of discomfort, pain, and anxiety, as well as improve overall mood. Participants will answer two short questionnaires before and after the art therapy to measure any changes.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must be adults aged 18 and older who are currently admitted to the palliative care unit and able to communicate their feelings. They should also be able to complete the art therapy session with or without assistance. However, individuals under 18, those who have just been admitted or are about to be discharged, or patients with severe cognitive issues will not be included in the study. This trial is not yet recruiting participants, but it offers a unique opportunity to explore how creative expression through art may provide emotional support and relief during a challenging time.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • inclusion if they are adults (=18 years old)
• • admitted to the PCU
• • have the ability to communicate
• • complete self-assessments with or without facilitator assistance
• • possess the ability to engage in a 30-60 minute art therapy session
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients will be excluded if they are under 18 years of age
• • within 48hrs of admission or discharge
• • experiencing severe cognitive impairment, uncontrolled symptoms, or delirium.