A Systematic Review on the Effects of Logotherapy and Meaning-Centered Therapy on Psychological and Existential Symptoms in Women with Breast and Gynecological Cancer

Abstract

Purpose Women diagnosed with breast cancer (BC) and gynecological cancer (GC) face psychological challenges common to all cancers, such as anxiety and depression, along with specific issues related to body image and sexuality. Logotherapy and meaning-centered therapy (MCT) have shown positive effects on the psychological well-being of cancer patients. Methods A systematic review of studies from 2014-2024 that explored the impact of logotherapy and MCT on women diagnosed with BC and GC was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Results Findings suggest that logotherapy decreases depressive symptoms, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress, whereas improves meaning in life, quality of life, physical symptom perception, and post-traumatic growth in women with BC and GC. Conclusion Implementing logotherapy in cancer care units through a multidisciplinary approach could be valuable, considering biopsychosocial factors, and incorporating aspects of self-image and sexuality in treatment would also be beneficial.