Cancer is a disease that causes a lot of panic and stress for both the patient and their loved ones. What are the ways to cope with the psychological impact of cancer patients?
According to the National Association for Behavioral Healthcare, one in three cancer patients experiences psychological, mental, and emotional crises. These crises are more common in breast cancer and head and neck cancer. Furthermore, approximately 25% of cancer survivors experience symptoms of depression, while nearly 45% experience anxiety.
In general, here are some common psychological effects that cancer patients may experience:
It is worth noting that to cope with these psychological effects that may occur to cancer patients, it can be helpful for them to seek psychological and emotional support from family and close friends.
Suspected Cancer Symptoms
Cancer Diagnosis
Waiting for Treatment
Discharge from the Hospital
Cancer Survival
Treatment Failure
Disease Recurrence and Progression
Advancing Stages of the Disease
Psychological disorders can significantly impact cancer patients, as this disease can be a physically and emotionally stressful experience for the affected person. It can also trigger anxiety, depression, and stress in patients.
Some studies indicate that psychological stress and anxiety can affect a tumor's ability to grow and spread. Some studies have confirmed that when mice bearing human tumors are kept isolated from other mice, conditions that increase stress and psychological distress, their tumors are more likely to grow and spread.
Some studies conducted in this context have also found that stress hormones can promote the formation of new blood vessels, which helps malignant tumor cells migrate and spread to other areas of the body.
Therefore, it is important for cancer patients to receive appropriate psychological and emotional support, as psychosocial support can help them recover from psychological stress and enhance their overall well-being. It is worth noting that psychological support for cancer patients may include psychological counseling, psychotherapy, and social support through groups and organizations specializing in supporting cancer patients and their family members.
Cancer is one of the most common diseases in the world, and there are many ways a cancer patient can cope with the psychological impact of the disease, the most important of which include the following:
Social support from family, friends, and caregivers is of utmost importance in dealing with this patient. It is also helpful to talk to your loved ones about your feelings and challenges and ask for support and assistance when needed.
Enhance your self-care routine, maintain good sleep, and engage in physical activity, along with proper nutrition. Also, don't forget to focus on recreational activities, such as reading, writing, drawing, listening to music, and other activities you enjoy.
The medical team will likely consist of mental health experts and specialists with experience in dealing with cancer patients, helping them overcome their fear, and diagnosing and treating related psychological problems such as anxiety and depression.
Try relaxation and meditation techniques, such as deep breathing and calm meditation, as these techniques can help calm the mind and body and reduce anxiety and stress.
As psychological stress can be a hindrance to recovery from illness, it is important to seek possible ways to reduce this stress. In this context, we recommend seeking the help of family and friends to relieve the psychological pressures they face.
Cancer patients may experience conflicting feelings during their journey with the disease. We recommend being patient with yourself and accepting your feelings without feeling guilty or putting pressure on yourself. It may be helpful to talk to a psychiatrist to deal with these feelings and achieve emotional balance.
Getting comprehensive information about your illness, treatment options, and preventative measures can help you cope with the disease and relieve psychological stress.
Some patients may find comfort and support in the spiritual aspects of their lives. They can explore and engage in spiritual practices that promote inner peace and spiritual strength, such as prayer and meditation, and engage in activities that enhance spirituality.
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