Walking Through the Cancer Journey: Psychological Changes and Self-Adjustment
Understanding psychological reactions, building support, and learning self-adjustment—accompanying you through psychological challenges
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When Hong Kong patients hear the words “you have cancer,” it often marks one of the most shocking moments in life. Many ask, “Why me?” or “Do other patients feel the same fear?” These questions highlight that cancer is not only a physical illness but also a profound psychological challenge (Burton & Watson, 1998).
Understanding the emotional journey helps both patients and families better navigate the treatment process. Below, we explore the psychological stages patients may experience and provide evidence-based coping strategies.
1. Early Diagnosis Stage: Fear and Anxiety
At the point of diagnosis, patients most commonly experience intense fear (National Cancer Institute, 2021):
- Fear of death: Worrying that life may soon end.
- Concerns for loved ones: Anxiety about leaving behind spouses, children, or parents.
- Treatment worries: Fears of hair loss, pain, and changes in physical appearance.
- Threats to dignity: Concerns about losing independence, work, and social roles.
- Distrust in medicine: Suspicions that doctors are withholding information.
- Guilt or self-blame: Some patients view cancer as “punishment” or “karma.”
These thoughts are heavy, but they are not abnormal. In fact, most patients experience them—it is a natural psychological response to a life-threatening illness (Bultz & Carlson, 2006).
2. Post-Treatment or Stable Phase: Uncertainty and Existential Concerns
When treatment ends, psychological challenges don’t disappear—they change shape:
- Uncertainty: Fear of recurrence and uncertainty about returning to work.
- Rebuilding life: Redefining what a meaningful life looks like.
- Loneliness and vulnerability: Even with family support, patients may feel isolated, as only they truly understand the struggle.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Research shows about 25% of breast cancer patients experience trauma symptoms—such as insomnia, anxiety, and depression—lasting months or even years (Kangas et al., 2002).
Such feelings can greatly impact quality of life, making psychological adjustment as important as medical treatment.
3. Coping Strategies for Psychological Changes
- Build a Support System
Support groups offered by the Hong Kong Cancer Fund and local hospitals allow patients to share experiences. Studies confirm that social support significantly reduces anxiety and depression (Helgeson & Cohen, 1996).
- Use Mind-Body Therapies
Yoga, tai chi, meditation, and breathing exercises can lower stress hormones, improve sleep, and ease emotional distress (Cramer et al., 2017).
- Seek Professional Help
If anxiety, depression, or insomnia severely disrupt daily life, professional counseling or psychiatric care can be effective. Both psychotherapy and medication can address cancer-related psychological distress (Jacobsen & Jim, 2008).
- Practice Self-Acceptance
Every patient reacts differently. There is no need to compare yourself with others. Allow yourself to grieve and feel fear, while also seeking meaning in adversity. Many patients report cancer leads them to reevaluate life values, strengthen family bonds, and discover deeper purpose.
Conclusion
The psychological journey of cancer has no “one-size-fits-all” answer—each person’s story is unique. In Hong Kong’s fast-paced culture, patients often feel pressured to “stay strong.” But true courage is not suppressing emotions—it is facing fear honestly and seeking support.
Cancer is not just a medical condition—it is a psychological and spiritual journey. If you are going through this, remember: your feelings are valid, and you are not alone.
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References
- Bultz, B. D., & Carlson, L. E. (2006). Emotional distress: The sixth vital sign—future directions in cancer care. Psycho-Oncology, 15(2), 93–95.
- Burton, M., & Watson, M. (1998). Counselling people with cancer. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell.
- Cramer, H., Lauche, R., Paul, A., & Dobos, G. (2017). Mind-body medicine in oncology: Yoga and meditation for breast cancer patients. Breast Care, 12(2), 102–109.
- Helgeson, V. S., & Cohen, S. (1996). Social support and adjustment to cancer: Reconciling descriptive, correlational, and intervention research. Health Psychology, 15(2), 135–148.
- Jacobsen, P. B., & Jim, H. S. (2008). Psychosocial interventions for anxiety and depression in adult cancer patients: achievements and challenges. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 58(4), 214–230.
- Kangas, M., Henry, J. L., & Bryant, R. A. (2002). Posttraumatic stress disorder following cancer: A conceptual and empirical review. Clinical Psychology Review, 22(4), 499–524.
- National Cancer Institute. (2021). Coping with Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov