Group-Blended and Individual-Unguided Online Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for people with cancer: Beyond Symptom Reduction

This dissertation explores how mindfulness can support people living with cancer, who often face high levels of psychological distress. It begins with a large meta analysis of 46 trials, showing that mindfulness based interventions not only reduce distress but also strengthen positive qualities such as self compassion, coping, wellbeing, and personal growth. Building on these insights, two new eMBCT formats—group blended and individually guided—were co created with patients to make support more accessible, scalable, and better aligned with their needs. Both formats proved effective: they reduced distress, rumination, and fatigue, and boosted mindfulness and self compassion, with effects lasting up to nine months. The group blended format produced quicker improvements, while the individually guided version offered more flexibility and steady long term benefits. Patients with high rumination and low mindfulness at baseline showed the greatest gains, suggesting that eMBCT can be particularly powerful for those struggling emotionally. Overall, the dissertation highlights co created eMBCT as a scalable and meaningful addition to psycho oncological care, supporting resilience and growth alongside symptom relief.