Brain Tumor & Psychology

There are many psychological disorders that affect patients with cancer and other serious diseases over the course of their life. Some psychological diseases can be treated while others may require further psychoanalysis with the help of psychiatrists. In this case, we speak about a patient with certain psychological problems due to the disease. It is necessary to consider all possible factors affecting the person and develop an individual approach to providing him/her with psychological assistance. One should remember that there are no guarantees for recovery. The choice lies not only in external conditions or medical treatment but also in internal ones. When it comes to psychological issues, there should be an unshakable belief in one’s healing powers that can save even from death. However, there is still a risk of depression, anxiety, paranoia, etc. We should take into account that some patients may have a low concentration level, forgetfulness, poor memory, etc. These are caused by fear of death or cancer. Fear of being cured also plays a crucial role. So, if someone suffers from these mental or psychiatric disorders, he/she would definitely fail to cope with the daily routine and would face difficulties during treatments and following rehabilitation programs. This situation can cause a loss of confidence in oneself, and subsequently, in other people. As for me, I would also like to ask you to pray for yourself and your loved ones. Remember that you are all our parents and will always remain such. You are so important, so it is up to us as individuals to preserve and strengthen these bonds.

Cancer Treatment and Psychotherapy.

Psychologists have long believed that cancer is brought on mostly by stress, anxiety, mood elevation, etc. That is why they try to find out what makes us behave in such ways. What happens to the body when a human being experiences stress? Stress is often associated with anxiety, anger, fear, and others. But cancer affects everyone differently, and it must also bring on stress. According to scientists at Scripps Research Institute, “Stress is likely responsible for more than half of the variance between those who recover and die of cancer versus patients who do not survive.” (Back, 2007). Thus, psychotherapists need to take into consideration such facts and apply their experience and theory in treating cancer patients. Nowadays, every hospital has its own program for cancer therapy. They treat patients with different types of cancer. Most of them specialize in treating liver cancer, oral cancer (oral cavity cancer), lung cancer, breast cancer, melanoma (skin cancer), etc. Some hospitals make use of hypnosis, electrotherapy, acupuncture, and many others. Every specialist in cancer treatment has the same goal – to provide effective treatment to his patient to cope with cancer. Many specialists specialize in helping cancer patients to improve their self-esteem, motivation, and coping skills to improve physical and psychological outcomes. Therefore, they work in partnership with nurses who specialize in counseling and psychological support to ensure that their patients feel better. Therapy sessions may include various kinds of exercises, educational activities; nutrition advice, relaxation exercises, and group discussions. A person’s behavior and attitude can change after undergoing certain procedures and treatments. For example, hypnoimmunization therapy helps the immune system attack tumors and stops the development of metastases. It includes two types of immuno-suppression therapies: 1) blood transfusion and 2) chemotherapy. To sum up, the purpose of treatment is to reduce pain, improve psychological functions, and assist in overcoming the symptoms of fatigue and other conditions. Such treatment should not only enhance the quality of life but should also lead to positive changes in the organism: physiological, cellular, and chemical processes.