- Both patients and their loved ones can have strong emotional responses to cancer.
- Worries and fears can interfere with everything from sleep to socializing.
- Multiple forms of support are available to help people cope—and even thrive.
The psychological impact of cancer diagnosis and treatment can be profound for patients and their families. According to the American Cancer Society, patients may experience a range of emotions, including:
- Fear
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Anger
- Uncertainty
They may feel overwhelmed by the complex treatment process, the physical symptoms and the impact of cancer on their daily lives. If their illness affects their ability to work, care for their loved ones or take part in activities they enjoy, they may experience a loss of purpose.
Family members may also experience significant emotional distress as they cope with the stresses of:
- Supporting their loved one
- Managing the practical aspects of cancer treatment
- Facing significant changes to their own goals and plans
These emotional responses can have physical and behavioral consequences. The American Psychological Association notes that patients may experience:
- Sleep disturbances
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Headaches
- Stomach problems
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty making decisions
- Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
Virginia O'Brien, M.D., is system director for Carilion's Ambulatory Psychiatry program. Her clinical practice focuses on psycho-oncology and other conditions that bring medicine and psychiatry together.
"For those with more severe symptoms," she said, "such as depression, anxiety or other mental health challenges that impact their daily life, there are psychiatrists who specialize in treatment of patients with cancer. These doctors are trained to safely prescribe medications that do not interfere with chemotherapy or other cancer treatments while also addressing the psychological impacts of cancer diagnosis and treatment."
Such specialists use a range of techniques to offer patients and families emotional support and help them cope with the stress and uncertainty of cancer.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
This type of therapy helps patients identify negative thoughts and behaviors and replace them with more positive, adaptive ones. It can help patients develop coping skills and improve their mood and overall well-being.
Mindfulness-based Interventions
These techniques help patients cultivate present-moment awareness and acceptance, which can help reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.
Support Groups
Connecting with other people in similar situations can help cancer patients feel less isolated and more supported. Support groups can provide a safe space to share experiences and learn from each other. Carilion Clinic offers various support groups for patients and families through the Center for Grief and Healing.
Medications
Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can often help people manage the emotional symptoms of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Dr. O'Brien pointed out that some medications can offer a dual purpose of treating mood or anxiety as well as sleep, appetite and pain.
Palliative Care
In some cases, psychiatrists may work with palliative care teams to provide emotional and spiritual support to patients and families during end-of-life care.
By helping patients build coping skills, therapists and psychiatrists who specialize in oncology can improve the quality of life for those affected by cancer. If someone you love is facing cancer, encourage them to take advantage of every program and intervention available to them, including professional mental health support for the emotional rollercoaster cancer presents.
