On the journey to curing diabetes and cancer, those who walk together are important.

Because every moment during cancer treatment is uncertain, cancer can be a source of fear for both patients and caregivers. However, if you can rely on each other during these times, the journey to recovery will feel less lonely. Amirang will share tips on how to provide warmth and support to cancer patients.

 

Two-line summary of today's armletter

 

1. A cancer patient's mind is as tired as their body.

2. You can feel the value of life more deeply when you are with a guardian or acquaintance.

Cancer, which causes psychological and emotional pain

 

Cancer is a disease that causes significant psychological shock and suffering. Unlike other diseases with a high degree of predictability, cancer treatment outcomes are relatively uncertain. This explains why cancer patients experience high levels of psychological anxiety. Professor Kim Jeong-hyeon of the Department of Psychiatry at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital stated, "Cancer is a traumatic event that confronts death, making people feel a direct threat to their lives. This is also why cancer patients often complain of depression, anxiety, and insomnia."

The psychological distress experienced during cancer diagnosis and treatment is called "distress." According to statistics from University College London, 35-44% of cancer patients experience distress. In particular, the physical changes and fatigue caused by chemotherapy and radiation significantly reduce patients' quality of life. This can exacerbate psychological distress and negatively impact treatment outcomes, creating a vicious cycle.

 

Why Cancer Patients Need Emotional Support

 

To break this vicious cycle and ensure a positive treatment outcome, cancer patients must take care of their mental health. Distress reduces the function of natural killer (NK) cells, increasing the risk of cancer recurrence and metastasis. Professor Kim Kyung-ran of the Department of Psychiatry at Ilsan CHA Medical Center stated, "Anxiety and loneliness have negative effects on the body. To enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatment and prevent metastasis and recurrence, cancer patients must actively manage their stress." A study conducted by Jingxuan Zhao's research team at the American Cancer Society on 3,477 cancer survivors aged 50 and older found that those who felt more lonely had a 60% higher risk of death than those who did not. This suggests that emotional support for cancer patients can positively impact treatment outcomes by enhancing psychological stability and resilience.

 

Caregivers contribute positively to the overcoming process.

The most important role in providing emotional support to cancer patients is played by their caregivers. Emotional encouragement from family, friends, or acquaintances is essential for cancer treatment and recovery. Professor Shin Da-woon of the Department of Psychiatry at Korea University Anam Hospital stated, "Just having a caregiver by one's side can be a tremendous source of strength for cancer patients." A Chinese study also found that married cancer patients have a 12% higher five-year survival rate than unmarried patients.

If you are a family member or acquaintance of a cancer patient, please check out the Korean Cancer Association's Code of Conduct. The Korean Cancer Association recommends six ways to be a good caregiver for a cancer patient: ▲Do your best in cancer treatment ▲Understand the patient's emotional state immediately after being diagnosed ▲Do not feel guilty about the cancer diagnosis ▲Ask the medical staff about any questions you have ▲Designate a caregiver among the family. Professor Kim Jeong-hyeon said, "After a cancer diagnosis, patients and their families are often confused, and it takes a long time for them to act rationally and reasonably. It is important for patients to find a sense of community and connection to maintain psychological stability and avoid isolation."

 

Relieve the burden and respect autonomy

It's crucial to avoid placing psychological burdens on cancer patients. Often, patients' psychological difficulties are dismissed as a matter of willpower, prompting them to unconditionally cheer up. Professor Shin Da-woon said, "Rather than indifferent remarks like, 'Cancer isn't a big deal these days' or 'It'll be okay,' it's more important to acknowledge and empathize with the patient's feelings, such as, 'It must be very difficult.'" Exercise and diet should be tailored to the patient's physical condition. Respecting their autonomy allows them to feel empowered and in control of their lives.

 

Finding small joys in everyday life can also be a significant emotional boost for cancer patients. Because cancer treatment can easily lead to depression, it's helpful for caregivers to help patients experience positive experiences outside of treatment, such as taking a brisk walk or sharing hobbies.

 

The arduous journey of cancer treatment demands tremendous energy and patience from both patients and their caregivers. While it's important for cancer patients to strive to be strong on their own, it's also crucial to embrace the help and support of those around them and move forward together. By working together with a relaxed mind, the path to recovery becomes easier.

 

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Positive thoughts are much more beneficial to your health,

They say that having a friend to talk to is also helpful.

 

I was isolated while fighting the disease.

They say the thoughts are getting worse