Expressive writing for caregivers of cancer patients
A Community-based Video-conference-delivered Expressive Writing Intervention for Caregivers of Persons With Cancer
This study is testing if a writing program delivered through video calls can help improve the mood and quality of life for caregivers of cancer patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Arizona State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Phoenix, Arizona) |
| Trial ID | NCT05859880 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial tests the effects of a group-based, videoconference-delivered expressive writing intervention aimed at improving mood and quality of life for caregivers of individuals diagnosed with cancer. Participants will engage in four sessions where they write about their deepest thoughts and feelings regarding their loved one's cancer experience. The study will explore whether more emotionally expressive writing or specific group dynamics enhance the benefits of the intervention. It also aims to identify if certain caregiver subgroups, such as younger individuals or those identifying as female, experience greater improvements.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are informal caregivers aged 18 or older who care for adults diagnosed with specific types of cancer within the last two years.
Not a fit: Patients who are caregivers for pediatric cancer patients will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance the emotional well-being and quality of life for caregivers of cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies on expressive writing have shown positive effects across various populations, indicating potential success for this approach with cancer caregivers.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion 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
Where this trial is running
Phoenix, Arizona
- Cancer Support Community Arizona — Phoenix, Arizona, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Shelby Langer, PhD
- Email: shelby.langer@asu.edu
- Phone: 206-234-9547
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.