Psycho Oncology

Psycho Oncology

Cancer is often associated with a multitude of distressing feelings and emotions. This psychological distress, at times, affects the self, relationships, work, and almost every facet of an individual and his/her family. Evidence suggests that one-third of individuals diagnosed with cancer experience severe psychological distress and upto 70% exhibit some degree of anxiety and depression. This evidence further supports the effectiveness of services aimed at relieving the emotional distress that accompanies a diagnosis of cancer, even in the case of debilitating depression and anxiety (David Spiegel).

The field of psycho-oncology is concerned with the psychological, social, behavioural, and ethical aspects of cancer. This service is mainly aimed at addressing the psychological responses of patients to cancer, at all stages of the disease (and that of their families and caretakers), along with understanding the psychological, behavioural and social factors that may influence the disease process.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer or has battled cancer, then the sequence of reactions would quite likely be:

• Initial Reaction: shock, fear, anger, disbelief, sadness, guilt , loneliness, loss of control
• Distress, coupled with feelings of anxiety, depression
• Adjustment and acceptance once treatment decisions are made

At Cytecare, we focus on improving the patient experience, by supporting patients and their families through their journey to enhance their overall quality of life.