Mindfulness-based self-compassion to enhance ontological well-being in breast cancer survivors: A randomized controlled trial

Çalışkan B. B., KUTLU F. Y.

European Journal of Oncology Nursing, vol.79, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 79
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.ejon.2025.102983
  • Journal Name: European Journal of Oncology Nursing
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, ASSIA, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Psycinfo
  • Keywords: Breast cancer, Existential care, Mindfulness, Ontological well-being, Self-compassion, Survivorship
  • Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an 8-week mindfulness-based self-compassion program (MBSCP) in enhancing ontological well-being (OWB) among breast cancer survivors. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted at a university hospital in Türkiye. Seventy-one women with a history of breast cancer were randomized into an intervention group (n = 35) or a control group (n = 36). The intervention group received the MBSCP, while the control group received no additional support. Ontological well-being was measured using the Ontological Well-Being Scale (OWBS) at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Results: Participants in the intervention group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in overall OWBS scores and in the subscales of “hope,” "action," and “nothingness” compared to the control group (p < .001). No significant differences were observed for the “regret” subscale. Conclusions: The MBSCP effectively enhanced ontological well-being in breast cancer survivors. These findings suggest that integrating mindfulness-based existential support into survivorship care may promote psychological resilience and holistic well-being.