Solidarity And Compassion: Supporting Cancer Patients

Struggling with any illness can be tough mentally, physically, and emotionally. Many of us think of cancer as a disease that only affects the body, but it can also significantly impact the mind. Living with cancer may be one of the most challenging situations people can find themselves in due to the intensive treatments and complex realities of the disease. However, prioritizing mental health support can be one way to aid someone living with cancer. If someone close to you has cancer, know that you can be a fundamental source of support throughout their journey. A licensed therapist can help you determine how best to offer support to your loved ones during this difficult time.

Cancer and mental health

Feelings of fear, anxiety, and depression can be common experiences for people with cancer. Studies show that 30% to 35% of people living with cancer may experience a psychiatric condition at some point in their journey. Some may experience the most intense mental health struggles upon first learning they have cancer, while others may struggle more during treatment. In any case, living with cancer can be a physically and emotionally draining experience.

However, there are some interventions that can help an individual’s cancer journey go more smoothly. For example, having a sound support system can be instrumental in maintaining a positive outlook. 

Additionally, studies show that receiving mental health care may improve survival odds; a 2020 study of 50,000 veterans living with lung cancer revealed that those who received mental health treatment tended to live significantly longer than individuals who did not receive treatment. 

Signs of mental health concerns

Signs and symptoms of mental health problems aren’t always easy to spot. Cancer patients, who may be experiencing changes in sleep patterns and diet due to treatment or not feeling well overall, may display these symptoms, which are often associated with depression, but they may feel fine mentally. 

Though there can be an overlap between symptoms of mental illness and symptoms of living with cancer (such as sleep changes and weight changes), mental health challenges can be prevalent in people with cancer, and it can be crucial to be able to spot the signs that your loved one is struggling. Some changes to look out for, which can indicate depression and anxiety, may include the following:

• Pulling away from loved ones or being more withdrawn than usual
• Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
• Mood swings
• Difficulty enjoying things 
• Shakiness or nervousness
• Irritability
• Uncontrollable worry
• Thoughts of hurting oneself or thoughts of suicide

If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts or exhibiting self-harming behaviors, reaching out for professional support is imperative. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988 or visiting their website.

Resources and support for cancer patients

Rates of depression are believed to be up to three times higher in cancer patients than in the general population, demonstrating the importance of mental health care for individuals with cancer. Know that many resources are available to those living with cancer and mental health problems, from local counseling services to national organizations. 

National Cancer Institute: The National Cancer Institute can offer a vast array of helpful resources for people living with cancer, including webpages dedicated to explaining and validating the complex feelings that many cancer patients experience. 

CancerCare: This website generally offers free online support groups for people with cancer led by oncology social workers. The site can also give individuals access to educational content, stories of strength and hope from people who have or have had cancer, and other helpful resources. 

American Cancer Society: This may be a helpful resource for individuals with cancer as well as their family members or caregivers. This website can offer detailed information about cancer research and support for caregivers, as well as patient resources that include coordinating free transportation to treatment, free lodging during treatment, a 24/7 cancer hotline, and inspirational cancer survivors’ stories. 

How you can help

You may broach the subject by indicating that you’ve noticed that your loved one has seemed a bit down, anxious, or quieter than usual. From there, you can open a dialogue about how to best support them. Everyone’s needs can vary, but this may look like spending more time with friends and family, trying new hobbies and activities, or enjoying more time in nature. If your loved one is struggling with thoughts and feelings and you are unsure how to help, you may suggest interventions like support groups, group counseling, or one-on-one therapy.

Therapy for cancer patients 

Though some may associate a cancer diagnosis with difficulties concerning physical health, the disease can also affect a person’s emotional health. It can be important to stay as mentally healthy as possible when living with cancer. Studies show that mental health can affect cancer outcomes. Below, we’ll discuss different therapeutic interventions that can help people with cancer. 

Psychosocial support

Psychosocial support for cancer patients generally refers to therapeutic interventions that help individuals maintain positive social relationships and an overall positive outlook. This type of support can look like group therapy sessions, educational meetings with an individual’s cancer care team, or support groups. 

There can be a wide variety of support groups for people with cancer, including groups focused on specific types of cancer, people with cancer in certain age groups, men- or women-only groups, and support groups for cancer patients in a specific stage of cancer. These support groups can help cancer patients connect with others and reinforce that they’re never alone in what they’re going through.

Individual therapy

Although there may be many resources cancer patients can utilize, like support groups and online educational programs, sometimes therapy is needed to treat mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety disorders. In other cases, individuals may not be facing a specific mental health condition, but are interested in connecting with a therapist who specializes in helping cancer patients. 

Working with a cancer therapist may comfort individuals struggling to come to terms with their condition. Additionally, most insurance plans cover at least some of the cost of therapy, potentially lessening the financial burden. 

Family counseling

Cancer can affect an individual’s family members in a significant way. Although the individual with cancer may be grappling with a major life change, their family members may also be experiencing difficult emotions like fear and sadness as they support their loved one on their cancer journey. For this reason, family counseling can be an excellent way to improve connection, communication, and support as the whole family learns to adjust to the changes taking place.

Benefits of online therapy

Online therapy can be another convenient option for people with cancer. Because online therapy does not typically require individuals to commute or leave their homes, it can be a more comfortable option for those experiencing the adverse side effects associated with cancer treatment. Online therapy may also be a safer option for cancer patients who have compromised immune systems and must be careful about going out into public places.

Effectiveness of online therapy

Additionally, online therapy can be equally effective in treating mental health conditions as traditional, in-person therapy. In fact, a recent review found that online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be more effective in treating depression than in-person CBT.