World Cancer Day is observed every year on February 4th. The day serves as a powerful reminder to raise awareness, encourage action, and alleviate the impact of this life-threatening disease. This year, the theme is 'United by Unique' where the campaign aims to see the person before the patient. Cancer is a life-threatening disease affecting the body besides taking a significant toll on mental health. Diagnosis of this ailment brings overwhelming emotions such as fear, anxiety, and uncertainty.
The constant worry about treatment outcomes, and possible recurrence can lead to high stress levels. Patients experience depression due to the physical changes and fatigue caused by treatment. The emotional impact extends beyond the patient. Family members and caregivers also face mental health challenges while supporting their loved ones. The article sheds light on the effect of mental well-being during cancer recovery.
Health Issues Caused By Cancer-Related Stress
Mental health plays a significant role in the overall well-being of cancer patients, and it can influence both the experience of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment. Here are some issues that can be a by-product of cancer:
Anxiety: A cancer diagnosis can create a sense of uncertainty about the future, leading to anxiety. People may worry about the outcome of their treatment, the possibility of relapse, or the effects cancer will have on their loved ones.
Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and helplessness can be common. Depression can be triggered by the emotional and physical toll of the disease or the effects of treatments like chemotherapy, which can cause fatigue and mood changes.
Stress: The stress of navigating the medical system, managing appointments, and dealing with the side effects of treatment can be overwhelming. Additionally, social and financial pressures can add to the stress.
Body Image And Self-Esteem: Changes in physical appearance due to hair loss, weight changes, or scars from surgery can impact a person's self-esteem and how they perceive themselves.
Fear Of The Unknown: The uncertainty surrounding cancer that is how it will progress, whether it will return, and the overall treatment journey can create a significant amount of stress.
Social Isolation: Cancer patients may withdraw from social activities, either because they are physically unable to engage or due to a desire to avoid discussing their condition with others. This can lead to feelings of loneliness.
How Cancer-Related Stress Affects The Body?
The relationship between mental health and cancer is complex. Poor mental health can have various effects on both the physical and emotional aspects of cancer care. Here is how it can affect cancer
Impact On Immune Function
Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can weaken the immune system, which may potentially affect the body’s ability to fight off cancer cells. Mental health struggles can lead to inflammation in the body, which might influence cancer progression or increase vulnerability to infections during treatment.
Adherence To Treatment
Mental health conditions like depression or anxiety can lead to a lack of motivation or energy, which might reduce a patient's ability to follow treatment protocols, attend doctor’s appointments, or adhere to medications. In turn, this could negatively affect the treatment's effectiveness.
Quality Of Life
Cancer patients already face significant physical and emotional challenges, but poor mental health can further diminish quality of life. Feelings of isolation, fear, and hopelessness can make it harder to engage in daily activities, maintain social connections, or experience joy during treatment.
Emotional And Psychological Strain
Cancer and its treatment often bring about difficult emotions such as fear, anger, sadness, or grief. Prolonged emotional strain can lead to mental exhaustion, and without support, it may lead to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Social Relationships
Mental health can affect relationships with family, friends, and caregivers. For instance, a patient dealing with depression may withdraw from loved ones, making it difficult to maintain important support systems. This isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, which can further affect emotional well-being.
Impact On Recovery
Some studies suggest that individuals with poor mental health may have slower recovery times and poorer outcomes after cancer treatment.
Also Read: How To Stay Positive While Battling Cancer? Here’s How You Take Care of Emotional Health
Ways To Manage Stress During Cancer Treatment
It is normal to experience stress, fear, and other mental health challenges during a cancer journey, but it is equally important to acknowledge these feelings and seek help. Using strategies like therapy, support groups, mindfulness, exercise, and building a support system can make a significant difference in mental well-being. Remember, managing mental health is as important as managing physical health during cancer treatment. Here is how to manage stress during cancer treatment
Therapy And Counselling
A mental health professional can provide a safe space to talk through fears, sadness, and anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help patients manage stress and depression.
Support Groups
Connecting with others undergoing similar experiences can provide emotional support and a sense of community.
Mindfulness And Meditation
Practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness can help manage stress by promoting relaxation and helping individuals stay grounded in the present moment.
Journaling
Writing about feelings can be a therapeutic outlet for emotional release. It also provides a way to track progress and reflect on the emotional journey.
Healthy Diet
A balanced diet can impact mental well-being. Eating nutritious foods can boost energy levels, reduce stress, and improve mood. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support both mental and physical health.
Build A Support System
Surrounding oneself with understanding friends, family, and caregivers can provide emotional support. Letting others in can help reduce feelings of isolation.
Stress-Relief Techniques
Relaxation techniques, such as aromatherapy, acupuncture, or massage, can help ease tension and reduce physical and mental stress.
Spirituality
For some, turning to spirituality, prayer, or faith-based practices can provide comfort and a sense of hope.
Sleep And Rest
Getting adequate rest is crucial for mental and physical recovery. Stress can be exacerbated by sleep deprivation, so focusing on healthy sleep habits can be beneficial.
(This content is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Preeti Sharma
Preeti Sharma has a Master's in Electronic Media and Mass Communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
References:
Updating the Definition of Cancer
Joel S Brown 1,Sarah R Amend 2, Robert H Austin 3, Robert A Gatenby 1, Emma U Hammarlund 4, Kenneth J Pienta
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10618731/
https://aacrjournals.org/cancerres
https://www.ejcancer.com/
