Reduction of Distress and Attrition in a 6-Week Psychoeducational Group: A Pilot Study

The distress and unique needs of AYAs (adolescent/young adults) with an oncology diagnosis have been well explored and documented in the literature. However, effective means of reducing distress and meeting needs has been more elusive. This study explored the impact of a 6-week psychoeducational pilot group on AYA distress. Patient surveys and literature review were conducted to develop content for a 6-week psychoeducational group to reduce AYA distress through peer support and increased knowledge related to symptom management, physician communication, body image, family relationships, autonomy, sexuality, fertility, and coping skills. Distress was measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Twenty-one AYAs receiving oncology treatment enrolled in the group. Thirteen completed the program. Reasons for attrition included transportation, severity of symptoms, procedures, disinterest, and death. A correlated t-test demonstrated a significant decrease in HADS total score from pre- to post-test. This pilot study suggests that providing AYAs with information relative to their unique developmental needs and opportunities to process those needs in an environment of peers is challenging but can have benefit. nCT01817335.