Abstract
OBJECTIVE: With the widespread use of computerized tomography (CT) examinations, the annual detection rate of pulmonary nodules has been increasing. However, early non-surgical patients often experience anxiety and depression during follow-up. This study aims to develop a novel intervention model to address these psychological issues and evaluate its clinical efficacy. METHODS: Our research team designed a psychological intervention model tailored to pulmonary nodule patients with anxiety and depressive symptoms. A total of 160 participants were randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group (80 patients) receiving cognitive behavioral group therapy (CBGT), and a control group (80 patients) receiving no CBGT intervention. Anxiety, depression, sleep quality, and social functioning were evaluated using validated standardized scales, including the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and General Overall Quality of Life-74 (GOQL-74). Data were collected at four time points: before the intervention, at 8 weeks, at 3 months, and at 6 months. RESULTS: The CBGT group showed significant improvements in anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and sleep disturbances. Additionally, the CBGT group exhibited a superior psychological status in terms of social functioning, though no significant differences were observed in other indicators. CONCLUSION: CBGT interventions positively contribute to the mental health of pulmonary nodule patients with anxiety and depression. The developed psychotherapy model is a relatively well-established protocol worthy of clinical application.