20 Dec Psychology Plays a Vital Role in Cancer Care
According to the American Cancer Society, men face a one-in-two lifetime risk of developing cancer, while women have a one-in-three risk. As these statistics make clear, cancer affects nearly all of us in various ways. Still, few people realize that psychology can play an important role in cancer treatment, as physical stress can easily equate to deep psychological distress. Psychologists can help patients and families reduce emotional anguish, enhance communication among patients, families, and oncologists, reduce treatments side effects, and generally improve a patient’s quality of life. There is even evidence that psychological interventions may strengthen patients’ immune systems, perhaps even helping them live longer.
At San Cristóbal Cancer Institute we are committed to the wellbeing of our patients and their families at every stage of treatment, not just physically, but also emotionally. We believe firmly in the need for holistic wellness, every step of the way. That’s why among our wide array of treatment options and therapies, we offer psychology services by a team of trained professionals, to help ease the common psychological distress patients endure. Whether you are coping with the diagnosis, the challenges of treatment, or continued worry about a recurrence, emotions brought on by the cancer experience can be difficult to handle (that goes for physicians too, who are invested in each patient’s case and work tirelessly for a speedy healing process). Cancer may bring on a range of emotions, including, but not limited to, the following:
- Shock/disbelief
- Fear/uncertainty
- Guilt
- Grief/sadness
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Anger/frustration
- Feelings of isolation
- Vulnerability/helplessness
Psychological care is not only normal, we believe it to be absolutely necessary. SCCI believes it’s an integral part of cancer care. Addressing the patient’s psychological well-being can help bring feelings of relaxation, control, better coping skills during treatment, overcome anxiety and depression, and enjoy life.
Click HERE if you’d like to know more about our Psychology services and the tremendous positive effects it can have on you, your family (or your patients). To know more about SCCI’s holistic approach to cancer care, CONTACT US.