Do psychological flexibility, self-compassion, spirituality, and time-since diagnosis predict mental wellbeing in UK adults living with a primary malignant brain tumour?

Paper one is a literature review that explores psychological and spiritual interventions that aim to address anxiety, depression, quality of life, and existential wellbeing for people living with a malignant brain tumour (MBT). Ten studies were identified, critically appraised for quality and results synthesised. The review highlighted all studies apart from problem-solving therapy improved depression, and all measuring anxiety, QOL, and spirituality saw improvements. Methodological limitations of the included studies were noted, including study design, sampling, and potential bias, along with limitations of the review itself. The results align with UK guidance for cancer care and reiterate the importance of a biopsychosocial-spiritual approach for this population. Further trials of psychological and spiritual interventions supporting emotional and existential wellbeing for MBT are recommended.

Paper two reports on a cross-sectional quantitative study investigating whether psychological flexibility, self-compassion, spirituality, and time-since diagnosis predict wellbeing in a UK sample of participants with a primary malignant brain tumour (PMBT) whilst controlling for age and gender. Ninety-five participants were recruited. Multiple regression analysis revealed psychological flexibility, spirituality, time-since diagnosis, and being male were significant predictors of wellbeing. Self-compassion was significant using the two-factor scoring but not the mean score. Age did not influence wellbeing, meaning the findings hold regardless of age. The findings suggest timely interventions targeting psychological flexibility, spirituality (meaning and purpose), and self-compassion might benefit the wellbeing of people with PMBT. The relationship between wellbeing and gender 4 and self-compassion merit further exploration. Further clinical and research implications and recommendations are suggested.

The final paper is a summary of paper two, written in an accessible format for study participants, anyone living with PMBT, and those supporting them. This was done with the invaluable support of two participants and the Patient Involvement Officer and Impact Lead at Brainstrust (UK charity).