Review a study into supporting mental health for people with primary breast cancer

What’s the title of the study?

The role of Psychological Flexibility in Adjustment to Breast Cancer

What’s the project about?

Being diagnosed with breast cancer can have a big impact on people’s mental health, and people cope with this in different ways. Some people may feel a lot of anxiety about their diagnosis, whilst others may avoid thinking about it. These are normal ways to deal with a cancer diagnosis. But it may lead to worse mental health in the future, and people may struggle with stress, low mood or anxiety. 

This research focuses on psychological flexibility. This is when people are able accept difficult thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them. People with more psychological flexibility can often cope better with difficult circumstances and have better mental health in the long term.

This research aims to explore how psychological flexibility can help people adjust better to a breast cancer diagnosis. The findings may help to improve mental health support for people with or beyond breast cancer.

The researchers would like your help to make sure the project is accessible and beneficial for people living with or beyond primary breast cancer. 

Who’s organising it?

Name of project lead: Neharika Puligundla

Job title: Trainee Clinical Psychologist

Organisation: NHS Lothian

Email address: S1550932@ed.ac.uk

Who can take part?

You can take part if you’ve had a diagnosis of primary breast cancer in the past 5 years. 

This includes 

• DCIS
• Stage 1, 2 or 3 primary breast cancer
• A local or regional recurrence of primary breast cancer

Why do you want me to be involved? 

By sharing your perspective, you can help the researchers make sure they’re carrying out the research in a way that’s sensitive and accessible for people affected by breast cancer.

What will you ask me to do?

There are 2 stages to the project. 

In the first stage, the researchers would like you to review the research design. They’ll send you a summary of the research, and you’ll share your views on the project, including any issues it might have. You’ll also look at the participant information sheet and give feedback on how easy it is for people to understand. 

In the second stage, you’ll help the researchers look at their findings and what they might mean for people living with or beyond primary breast cancer. You’ll also help the researchers think about how to share their findings with the NHS or other charities. 

All involvement will take place via email or on Microsoft Teams. 

How do I get involved?

If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please email Neharika Puligundla at S1550932@ed.ac.uk. 

When’s the deadline?

1 August 2025