Symptom FOCUS

Finding Our Center Under Stress (FOCUS) is a 6-week mobileHealth-telehealth intervention integrating cognitive-behavioral and acceptance and commitment therapy for advanced cancer patients. The primary goal of the intervention is to improve symptoms for people living with advanced cancer so that people with cancer can continue to live meaningfully despite these symptoms. The app consists of a welcome section which provides an overview of the app followed by four modules – each focused on a different symptom – sleep, worry-anxiety, fatigue, and mood. Each module contains interactive exercises and evidence-based practices shown to improve these symptoms and enhance quality of life. For instance, the fatigue module recommends three types of exercise (i.e., stretch and relax, resistance training, aerobic activity) designed specifically for people with advanced cancer with additional tips on coping with fatigue. The app wraps up with a summary of the most essential tips provided in the app and goal-setting to ensure long-term success in coping with cancer. The app is only available to individuals who are participating in the FOCUS research study.