In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani sits down with Dr. Cara Bohon, a clinical psychologist and researcher, to explore the unique mental health challenges faced by cancer patients and survivors. They discuss the role of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in cancer care, the complexities of treating cancer-related insomnia, and the shortage of mental health professionals trained in oncology.
Dr. Bohon and Samira also review a PCORI-funded study led by Dr. Jun J. Mao, comparing the effectiveness of CBT-I (cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia) versus acupuncture for cancer-related insomnia. Dr. Bohon breaks down step-by-step sleep strategies for cancer patients, offering practical tools to improve sleep, emotional well-being, and cancer-related anxiety—even for those without access to therapy.
This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features this PCORI study by Jun J Mao, MD.
Check out the free mental health resources mentioned in this episode from Veterans of America here.
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Key Highlights:
Insomnia is a major issue for cancer patients and survivors alike – beyond just trouble sleeping, it exacerbates pain, fatigue, cognitive impairment, and emotional distress, making cancer treatment even more challenging.
The clinical trial covered in this episode found that cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) led to better sleep improvements compared to acupuncture, with lasting effects even after treatment ended. While acupuncture may not be as effective as CBT-I for sleep, it showed short-term benefits for managing cancer-related pain, which can still be valuable for your mental health as well
The problem with therapy today is not just accessibility, but also the fact that many therapists aren't trained in psycho-oncology, making it difficult for cancer patients to find mental health support tailored to their unique challenges.
Techniques from CBT-I, such as sleep restriction, stimulus control, cognitive restructuring, and relaxation exercises, can significantly improve sleep quality—even for those who can't afford professional therapy.
About our guest:
Dr. Cara Bohon is a clinical psychologist and researcher from Stanford University with experience scaling delivery of evidence-based mental health treatments to meet the huge needs of patients across the United States. She led clinical programs and research at Equip Health, which addressed the demand for effective eating disorder treatment by providing training and virtual delivery of evidence-based eating disorder treatment across the country and is passionate about expanding her work in oncology in the future.
Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.
