Chatbot-Based Version of a World Health Organization–Validated Intervention for Stress Management in Patients With Breast Cancer (Self-Help Plus): Protocol for a Pilot Feasibility Study

Comprehensive Summary

Fietta et al. present a protocol examining the potential use of a mobile health platform in supporting and assessing the psychological health of women undergoing breast cancer treatment. Over six weeks, 50 women from a breast cancer unit in Trento, Italy, will engage with a chatbot ALBA (A Well-Being Assistant), completing weekly exercises and psychoeducational sessions. Fietta et al. will evaluate ALBA’s impact on psychological outcomes using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with participants. The chatbot is projected to improve participants’ psychological well-being, engagement, and quality of life, although definitive results are not yet available. This study provides insight into the integration of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for improving stress management and overall quality of life in patients with breast cancer.

Outcomes and Implications

ALBA demonstrates the potential application of digital interventions in improving physiological well-being for women, especially in underserved and geographically isolated areas where access to mental health services is limited. Fietta et al. plan to integrate AI features into ALBA to enhance the model’s capabilities, improving the delivery of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based interventions. The six-week pilot study will generate preliminary data on usability and the psychological impact of the chatbot, providing a foundation for larger trials and future integration into clinical practice.