Mental health interventions for patients with haematological malignancies.

BACKGROUND

Patients with haematological malignancies frequently experience significant psychological distress due to the complexity and chronic nature of their illness. Despite growing recognition of the mental health burden, an integrative synthesis of effective interventions remains limited.

AIM: To identify, categorise and synthesise existing empirical studies on mental health interventions for individuals diagnosed with haematological malignancies.

METHODS

Following Whittemore and Knafl's integrative review framework, a comprehensive literature search was conducted across databases and academic platforms. A total of 20 studies published between 2000 and 2024 were included based on relevance, methodological quality and language. Study quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist, and level of evidence was evaluated based on Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt's hierarchy.

RESULTS

Three core categories emerged: (1) psychotherapeutic and behavioural therapies (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy mindfulness); (2) spiritual and supportive care (e.g., religious support, guided presence); and (3) creative and multimodal therapies (e.g., music therapy, digital interventions). Most studies demonstrated moderate to high methodological rigor and reported significant improvements in anxiety, depression, emotional resilience and psychosocial wellbeing.

CONCLUSION

Tailored mental health interventions are crucial in enhancing psychological outcomes and quality of life among patients with haematological cancers, underscoring their integration into oncology and palliative care frameworks.