Positive Effects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Depression, Anxiety and Stress of Family Caregivers of Patients with Prostate Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND: The family caregivers of patients with cancer mightexperience various physical, mental, and spiritual difficulties, the neglect of which can causeseriousproblems for theentirefamily. If caregivers are left without appropriate treatment and intervention, their level of physical and mental health will substantially decrease-they will, in other words, become “hidden patients.” MATERIALS AND METHODS: The current study is a clinical trial of 80 family caregivers of patients with prostate cancer, who were allocated to control and experimental groups. The experimental group received 10 sessions of group cognitive behavioral therapy. The 21-item Depression Anxiety Stress Scales were completed before the intervention as well4 and 8 weeks after. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (means and standard deviations) andvariousstatistical tests. RESULTS: The results showed thatthecognitivebehavioral intervention reduceddepression, anxiety, and stress among familycaregivers. CONCLUSION: Because of the positive impact of this intervention, its implementation in clinical care by nurses is recommended.