Effects of supportive group therapy on levels of hopelessness in patients with cervical cancer at cancer disease hospital in Lusaka, Zambia

Hopelessness is a subjective appraisal of negative expectations about the occurrence of a highly valued outcome coupled with the sense that one lacks control over desired events in the future. Hopelessness is an early symptom of depression and is comorbid with cervical cancer. Supportive Group therapy offers an economical and time efficient solution. This study aims to ascertain whether supportive group therapy can reduce levels of hopelessness in cervical cancer patients at Cancer disease hospital in Lusaka Zambia. The study design was a Single blinded Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) conducted at Cancer Disease Hospital in Lusaka Zambia. 49 participants completed Pre (Hopelessness in illness Questionnaire) HAI questionnaire results noted. The participants were then randomised into control and intervention group. The intervention group then attended one hour Supportive group therapy sessions weekly for four weeks. The control group continued to receive the usual support of their family members and CDH staff. Both groups were then administered the post HAI questionnaire and results noted and analysed using SPSS.The null hypothesis was accepted as there was no difference between the control group and the intervention group. In conclusion, Supportive group therapy showed modest reduction in levels of Hopelessness. Such a minimal improvement, with a general trend toward overall reduction of levels of hopelessness and helplessness, was equally observed in other psychological interventions for cancer patients (Linn et al., 2002). Social/family support as the most dependant factor of hopelessness in cervical cancer patients should be enhanced by deliberating inquiring and facilitating its provision