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Depression in Internet and face-to-face cancer support groups: a pilot study
1Department of Nursing, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA. klemmpa@udel.edu
Oncology Nursing Forum
|May 16, 2002
Summary
Patients with cancer using online support groups report significantly higher depression levels than those in traditional face-to-face groups. Further research is needed to evaluate the efficacy of online interventions for cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychiatry
- Digital Health
Background:
- Cancer patients face elevated risks for depression.
- Support groups aid coping, but online interventions require evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- Compare depression levels in internet vs. traditional cancer support groups.
- Explore the link between internet use and depression in cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Exploratory, descriptive study.
- Convenience sample of 40 cancer patients (14 traditional, 26 internet).
- Surveys included demographics, medical history, and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D).
Main Results:
- Online group: 56% male, 44% female; Traditional group: 100% male.
- Online group CES-D mean score: 29.27 (SD=11.89).
- Traditional group CES-D mean score: 1.86 (SD=2.69).
- Significant difference in depression levels between online and traditional groups (p < 0.000).
Conclusions:
- Suggests more depressed cancer patients utilize internet support groups.
- Efficacy of online cancer support interventions requires further evaluation.
- Nursing assessments should consider cancer patients' depression risk.