- NEW DELHI — Integrating mental health support in cancer care is important and
will boost the health of both survivors and caregivers, according to a new
study by oncologists at the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS),
Delhi.
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- The study, published in the Asian Pacific Journal of
Cancer Prevention, sheds light on the critical yet under-recognised
psychological struggles faced by cancer survivors and their caregivers.
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- More than affecting physical health, a cancer diagnosis
raises fear, uncertainty, anxiety, and depression -- all of which can
profoundly affect the quality of life not only for patients but also for
caregivers.
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- “We advocate for integrating mental health care into
routine oncology services, expanding access to psycho-oncology, and recognising
caregivers' needs,” corresponding author Dr. Abhishek Shankar, Assistant
Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr BR Ambedkar Institute Rotary
Cancer Hospital at AIIMS, Delhi, told IANS.
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- The study noted that once the patients undergo treatment,
they get introduced to a new set of challenges like managing long-term side
effects, adjusting to new physical limitations. They also struggle to
reconstruct a sense of identity following a profoundly life-altering
experience, which can take a toll on their mental health.
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- While the needs of the patient have been the primary
focus, caregivers -- who play an essential role in the patient’s journey,
providing emotional and physical support, coordinating treatment logistics, and
managing the daily realities of living with cancer patients are often
overlooked.
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- The study showed they face their unique psychological
burdens, dealing with feelings of helplessness and burnout. They also suffer
from anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation.
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- This underscores the urgent need to address the
psychological needs of all individuals impacted by cancer, be they survivors or
caregivers, said the researchers.
