Mindfulness-based stress reduction and diversional therapy in the management of psychological distress of cervical cancer patients in Lagos and Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract Background: This study investigated the effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction, a structured program focusing on mindfulness meditation and stress management, and diversional therapy, which emphasizes engaging patients in enjoyable activities to divert attention from distress, on psychological distress among patients with cervical cancer in Lagos and Ibadan, Nigeria. It also explored the moderating roles of health self-efficacy and social support on treatments. Methods: A total of 61 participants (mean age: 48.0 ± 3.6 years) were selected using a multistage sampling procedure from 3 teaching hospitals. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance and Scheffé post hoc tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The findings revealed a significant main effect of treatment on psychological distress among patients with cervical cancer. Health self-efficacy was negatively associated with psychological distress, whereas social support did not significantly moderate the relationship between psychological distress and treatments. Conclusion: Both Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and Diversional Therapy effectively reduced psychological distress in patients with cervical cancer in Lagos and Ibadan, Nigeria. The study highlights the critical role of health self-efficacy in managing psychological distress and suggests its integration into therapeutic interventions.