Being diagnosed with cancer is certainly one of the most stressful experiences. Not only the diagnosis, but testing and the actual treatment process can disturb the emotional health of the sufferer. For this reason is it important for patients as well as for caregivers to be aware of the psychological problems that one may face when having cancer. Coping with cancer is a difficult element in the overall process of this disease.
Fear and anxiety are quite common in people diagnosed with cancer. It is perfectly natural to be afraid of the pain and the treatment that is often painful as well. It is common for newly diagnosed patients to develop a stronger fear of death. Anxiety can easily take over and become persistent.
Patients who have advanced stages of cancer tend to experience strong anxiety, but it tends to be triggered by fear of abandonment and dependency on others rather than by fear of death. Sufferers who have been cured may fear the reoccurrence of the condition.
Apart from these feelings of fear, a sufferer can experience physical symptoms, such as trembling, faster heart rate and sweating. Sensations such as a lump in the throat and a knot in the stomach are other common signs of anxiety. In some cases, anxiety can lead to panic attacks. It is also possible for the sufferer to develop a type of anxiety disorder.
Depression often goes hand in hand with cancer as well. In fact, one out of every four cancer patients gets this type of depression called clinical depression at one point. It is quite common for depression and anxiety to coexist. The psychological symptoms of depression in patients with cancer include persistent sadness, a feeling of emptiness, hopelessness, helplessness and worthlessness.
It is not uncommon for these people to feel guilt. They usually lose interest in all activities and find it difficult to concentrate. Extreme fatigue, weight loss and trouble sleeping are other common symptoms. People with clinical depression usually have not only fear of death, but also suicide thoughts and plans. They can also attempt suicide.
Both anxiety and depression in cancer patients are very serious conditions. It is important for them to be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. The psychological treatment can help sufferers in coping with cancer more easily and continue to live a normal life, when they get cured. There is a lot of specialized help and support for cancer patients and their caregivers. It is equally important for the latter to get adequate psychological help and support as they can get depressed or experience anxiety.
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