Getting your life back after cancer: a feasibilitystudy of life coaching

Background There is growing evidence demonstrating that life coaching can empower people to manage chronic illness and create sustainable behaviour change. However, little is known about how this might apply in the context of cancer survivorship, where people frequently experience reduced confidence following treatment. We hypothesise that life coaching could provide cancer survivors with a means to regain confidence, enhance quality of life and sustain positive lifestyle behaviour change. Aims To determine the acceptability, feasibility and practicality of conducting research into life coaching for cancer survivors. Methods A one group pre-test, post-test feasibility study was conducted, recruiting participants from community organisations. Eligibility criteria included: within one year of completion of primary cancer treatment; over 18; no metastases; no mental health problems. One face to face and five telephone sessions were given over three months. Outcome measures included quality of life, self-efficacy, coping and goal attainment. Interviews explored the feasibility and acceptability of life coaching and research issues. Results Nine women and two men were recruited, representing varying cancer diagnoses. All outcome measures were sensitive to change and indicated positive trends post intervention. Participant interviews indicated that the intervention was well received and had a positive impact. Lessons were learnt about study design, recruitment and acceptability of the intervention type and delivery. Conclusions This study showed that cancer survivors are prepared to be recruited into research about life-coaching, which shows promise with regard to helping people regain confidence following cancer. It merits further evaluation through conducting an exploratory randomised controlled trial.