How Psycho-Oncology Works:
Where Mental Health Meets Cancer Care
Did you know that 1 in 3 women globally get diagnosed with cancer? If you are surprised, already, the statistics for men will shock you even more.
Globally, 1 in 2 men are at a risk of getting cancer as per the American Cancer Society’s 2021 report.
If the scare is not enough, research has also found that 40% of cancer patients experience significant psychological distress (National Cancer Institute, 2022).
Therefore, we know that the impact of cancer is not just on the physical health but majorly also on the mental health of the person. Psycho-oncology is a specialized field that addresses the complex interplay of psychological, emotional and social factors that are a part of cancer care.
Phases of Psychological Adjustment in a Diagnosis
The stages of grief by Elizabeth Kubler Ross are well known to students of psychology. Similar to these stages, are stages that a person goes through when they get a diagnosis. These are known as the Phases of Psychological Adjustment.
Pre- Diagnosis Anxiety
Distress begins right when a person consults a doctor. There are multiple tests, and scans that the person has to go through. Some of them are invasive and can be painful while others could be non-painful. Therefore, even before the diagnosis, the patients experience heightened anxiety and somatic concerns.
Diagnosis Trauma
A diagnosis of cancer triggers stress reactions. A lot of times, these symptoms also mimic post traumatic stress disorder in 20 % of the patients (Cordova et al, 2017)
Treatment Distress
The “Chemo Brain” factor explains chemotherapy induces cognitive impairment. This affects about 75 % of patients, leading to signs like frustration, memory difficulties, and reduced self efficacy (Janelsins et al., 2018)
Survivorship and Fear of Recurrence
Even if one becomes cancer free after their treatment, they may never become stress free from the cancer. Cancer may come back as a relapse and the fear of relapse, does not let one live stress free. This also impacts the person’s quality of life.
Book Recommendations for Students on Psycho Oncology
Psycho-Oncology Third Edition
Handbook of Psych oncology: Psychological Care of the Patient with Cancer
Psycho-Oncology
Psycho-Oncology for the Clinician: The Patient Behind the Disease
Psycho-Oncology: A Quick Reference on the Psychosocial Dimensions of Cancer Symptom Management
The psychological burden of cancer is as critical as its physical impact. Addressing mental health concerns through evidence-based psycho-oncological interventions significantly improves treatment adherence, quality of life, and even survival outcomes. Increased awareness, research, and integration of psycho-oncology into mainstream cancer care are essential for a truly holistic approach to cancer treatment.
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