How cancer treatments can affect mental health

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Loneliness can be eased by calling friends and family or volunteering for a good cause. It’s a great idea. Cancer treatments are hard on the body, and they also affect mental health. Health reporter Haley Hernandez discussed this with Ashleigh Griffin, a licensed master social worker with Texas Oncology Gulf Coast region. Texas Oncology conducted a poll across the state about cancer patients’ mental health. The poll revealed the significant impact cancer has on patients’ mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Many patients said they wished they had received emotional and mental support during treatment and reported feeling isolated during and after their care.

In the poll, 70% of patients reported feeling depressed, 65% reported symptoms of anxiety, and still 60% said they did not want to seek help. Mental health stigma can prevent cancer patients from getting the support they need, even when experiencing understandable depression and anxiety. Cancer impacts the body tremendously, and many patients felt unprepared for the mental and emotional effects. It is important for patients to feel comfortable discussing their mental, spiritual, and emotional challenges with their care providers. Providers should also screen patients for depression and anxiety, because these experiences remain common among cancer patients.

The survey showed that 100% of patients who used support groups found them helpful. Social workers in medical facilities provide support services and facilitate these groups. Even though a smaller portion of patients actually use individual appointments, support groups can have a tremendous positive impact on a patient’s cancer journey. For patients who feel uncomfortable talking one-on-one, providers can guide them to the proper support avenues, including support groups and resources for depression screening.

Support groups provide validation and normalize experiences. Knowing that others are facing similar challenges helps patients feel less isolated and more confident. These platforms for support can be particularly beneficial during cancer treatment, offering emotional, mental, and spiritual assistance. Friends and family can also help by guiding patients to support groups and encouraging them to express their emotions. Open communication with health

[Steve]

I have a relative who is battling lung cancer for more than 15 years. He has very high spirits, and is perfectly healthy. He says a lot of people who are diagnosed with cancer die due to mental health more than the cancer itself. Since they lose hope, treatment does not work properly.