Psychological impacts on patients during cancer treatment - Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital Kidney

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Cancer care Psychological impacts on patients
during treatment - Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital
Kidney
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About -
Other than the burden on physical health, cancer
can also impact the psychological health of the
patients. Know what components need to be
strengthen for better psychological
health. Cancer patients have to deal with lots
of feelings, not knowing what will happen next,
and feeling sick all the time. This journey has
different parts full of ups and downs, each with
its own problems and chances to be strong. Dr
Austin Fernandes, Psychiatrist, Dr L H
Hiranandini Hospital, Powai, Mumbai, shared that
as psychiatrist, he has watched and helped
patients through this tough time. Here, he
explained how the mind and feelings of the
patients connect with their medical care.
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Psychological journey of a cancer patient during
treatment
Initial Shock and Emotional Support When people
first find out they have cancer, its like a big
shock. They feel scared, worried, and cant
believe its happening. Dr Fernandes said, They
start thinking about life and death and feel
overwhelmed by all the treatments they might
need. Its really important to help them right
away by listening to their feelings and giving
them a place to talk about their fears where they
feel safe.
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Managing Treatment-related Distress
When treatment starts, patients can feel lots of
different physical problems from the medicine.
They might feel really sick or not know what will
happen next. Teaching patients how to think
differently and helping them focus on the present
moment, can make them feel more in control even
when things are tough.
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Existential Reflection and Meaning-making
He said, When things get really hard, patients
start thinking about big questions like the
meaning of life. Cancer can make people change
the way they see things and whats important to
them. It can help them become stronger, find new
reasons to keep going and feel closer to the
people they care about.
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Importance of Social Support
Having people around who care about you is
really important when youre getting treatment
for cancer. They help you stay strong and feel
better emotionally. Its also really important to
make sure the people taking care of you have what
they need, so they can support you better.
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Coping with Changes in Physical Appearance
After chemotherapy, some patients struggle with
accepting their changed physical appearance,
particularly baldness. This can lead to feelings
of self-consciousness and emotional distress.
Psychiatrists and family members are really
important in helping during this time. Talking
openly, listening with care, and finding ways to
feel better can make it easier for people to
accept how they look and feel stronger as they go
through cancer treatment.
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Transition to Survivorship
As treatment goes on, patients start thinking
about life after cancer. They feel relieved that
treatment is working but also worry about cancer
coming back. This time is like starting a new
part of their journey. They still need help
dealing with their emotions and feeling strong.
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Thank you!