HEAL-ABC Study: Harnessing E-Mindfulness Approaches for Living-After Breast Cancer

About the Study

The HEAL-ABC study will compare different approaches to mindfulness training for breast cancer survivors who were between the ages of 18-51 at the time of their breast cancer diagnosis and who have symptoms of depression. The study will help researchers learn which approach to mindfulness training will work better to improve mental health and well-being in young breast cancer survivors.

What the Study Involves

Participants will join one of three mindfulness training programs for six weeks and complete assessments before and up to six months after training. The mindfulness programs will be delivered in one of three ways:

1. online via Zoom in a group with other study participants;
2. using a specially-designed app that includes the same training material and activities as the Zoom group; or
3. using special mindfulness meditations.

People can participate if they:

• were diagnosed with Stage 0, I, II, or III breast cancer at or before age 50.
• completed all primary breast cancer treatments at least 6 months before joining the study.
• have mild-moderate depressive symptoms.
• are within 5 years of diagnosis.
• speak English or Spanish.
• are willing to participate in a 6-week program to receive training in mindfulness.
• are female (sex assigned at birth).

People may not participate if they:

• have a breast cancer recurrence, metastastic disease, or another cancer diagnosis.
• are unable to commit to intervention schedule.
• are already actively practicing mindfulness meditation.
• are currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the near future.
• are enrolled in another cancer control or behavioral intervention trial with training activities.