EFFECT OF ELLIS ABC THEORY ON EMOTION AND SLEEP QUALITY IN ATHLETIC PATIENTS WITH COLORECTAL CANCER AFTER SURGERY

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) program, grounded in Ellis ABC theory, specifically designed for athletic patients undergoing postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy for colorectal cancer. The study aimed to assess whether this therapy could significantly enhance emotional well-being and sleep quality among this group. Methods: This quasi-experimental study involved 60 athletic patients receiving chemotherapy for colorectal cancer, who were randomly divided into two groups of 30 based on their admission dates. The control group received standard nursing care and counseling, while the intervention group additionally participated in REBT sessions based on the Ellis ABC theory. Assessments using the Chinese version of the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale Short Form (MSAS-SF-SC), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were conducted at baseline, during the intervention at week 4, and post-intervention at week 6. Results: After six weeks, comparative analysis between the two groups revealed significant improvements in the intervention group across multiple parameters, including PSQI total scores, sleep quality, sleep efficiency, sleep disturbances, and daytime dysfunction (P < 0.05 for all). Conclusion: Implementing an REBT program based on Ellis ABC theory is highly effective in alleviating emotional distress and enhancing sleep quality in athletic patients undergoing chemotherapy for colorectal cancer. This tailored approach addresses specific psychological and physiological stressors faced by athletes, suggesting that integrating targeted mental health interventions can significantly benefit recovery and overall quality of life in this patient population.