Designing for Emotional Wellbeing and Support in Breast Cancer Rehabilitation

Objective: This research explores the question: What are the design opportunities for technologies supporting mental wellbeing in breast cancer survivors? In order to investigate we must first consider (1) the current use and design opportunities for technology in supporting, coping and adjusting to survivorship, (2), the diverse perspective on survivor’s needs in coping with a cancer diagnosis and throughout treatment, (3) and recommendations and guidance for the design of technology for supporting mental wellbeing in people with breast cancer. Method: To explore these inquiries, this thesis includes the following 3 studies: a systematic review of literature on digital health intervention trials aiming to support psychosocial wellbeing in breast cancer patients; Qualitative semi-structured interviews with breast cancer survivors; Qualitative semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals. Qualitative data was preferred as it provides a better understanding of views and perceptions, along with allowing a deeper analysis of the issue. Results: Ultimately unique therapeutic factors which reflected participants wellbeing/coping were identified from the literature review and further categorized into 4 distinct codes: empowerment/self-efficacy, community/altruism, distress/coping, wellbeing/quality of life. These codes were then used to analyze the acceptability and usability of eHealth interventions promoting mental wellbeing. Conclusion: Through investigating the current literature and by addressing the needs survivors face throughout the illness trajectory from the perspective of both survivors and health care professionals, we have a greater understanding for the potential use and a developing framework of a digital tool to support mental wellbeing.