When the physical symptoms of mesothelioma occur, most patients are not shy about calling their oncologist for consultation. But when the emotional and psychosocial symptoms are added to the mixture, very few patients feel confident to ask for help.
According to a new study in the Journal of Integrative Medicine , 72 percent of advanced cancer patients felt that the medical system does not sufficiently address their spiritual and psychosocial needs. Only 53 percent felt adequately supported within their respective religious communities.
What exactly were these needs that patients felt went unanswered?
needs of inner peace were ranked most important by all participants. Most indicated a need to retire to a quiet place for reflection, and for
Other highly ranked needs included "find meaning in their illness and suffering."
- to know that their life is precious
- reflecting on past events
- to feel connected with the family
- to forgive others
- to promote an attitude of love towards others
Among the religious patients, giving and receiving prayer ?? and turn to a higher power without praying ?? were considered important aspects of care. However non-religious issues such as forgiveness, peace, and self-actualization were generally higher.
What if the spiritual and emotional needs are not met?
These requirements are similar to the physical needs meaning if they are not treated, they can "snowball" and lead to other complications. Cancer patients who do not seek psychosocial support tend to experience more depressive symptoms, feel less peaceful and less significant attitude on life.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, patients who are in good health taken for their emotional stressors tend to have a more positive perception of their experience. Those who receive spiritual support from doctors and religious leaders often report a better quality of life. (This can also apply to a non-religious support, such as encouraging a journey for forgiveness.)
Five Tips For Search emotional care
It is not always easy to reach an indication, but the following steps can help make it a little easier:
Identify your most pressing needs. As the study demonstrated, which is very important for a patient may be an afterthought for another. (For example, some patients have noted that it is extremely important to read spiritual books, while others find solace in religious literature.) Spend some time studying what is pressing on your heart and mind and identify ways that you (alone or with the help of a professional) can meet these needs. For example, if ?? like most of the study participants ?? you enjoy getting lost in nature, find a local park or pond where you can think in peace.
recognize that these issues are a normal part of coping with a cancer diagnosis. There is nothing weak seek help for feelings of isolation, feelings of regret, anxiety, depression or other emotional cancer complications. Almost everyone has experienced some of these feelings one way or another ?? and seeking professional guidance is a sign of strength. Although the study indicated that most traditional health care professionals do not consider the spiritual and emotional issues a relevant factor to deal with the disease, counselors and other health professionals may be able to offer useful expertise.
Take small steps to warm up to the idea. There is no need to jump directly into the office of a therapist. Many patients find it less intimidating to start small, with options such as cancer support groups or brief meetings with a religious leader of confidence. Reach out in any way is a positive step.
Consider anonymous options. If you are not comfortable with meeting face-to-face, anonymous support is available. For example, we offer a support group online with a licensed counselor; you must not give credentials. online forums and blogs cancer are other ways to anonymously discuss emotional issues with your diagnosis. (Keep in mind, however, that unless otherwise specified, you may not be speaking with a professional licensed mental health. Carefully consider the validity of any source that you take advice.)
Ask your oncologist for recommendations. Even if they were trained in the physical aspects of mesothelioma treatment, your oncologist may refer you to a professional reputable emotional health. If you are a patient to a larger hospital, they may even have a multidisciplinary program with spiritual or professional advice on staff. If you are hospitalized or outpatient hospice participant, ask your organization to talk to their people of non-religious clergy or social workers.
Have you had trouble your emotional and spiritual needs met? Or do you have to share the tips with others? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook.
