Approximately 3,000 individuals receive a diagnosis of mesothelioma annually, and they all confront an unknown future that may involve undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatment, as well as dealing with increasing medical expenses.
While the majority of people tend to prioritise the physical aspect of treatment, it is crucial to acknowledge the emotional impact that a diagnosis has on patients and their families. Due to the long latency period of 10 to 50 years for this disease caused by asbestos exposure, individuals may undergo feelings of shock and panic upon receiving their diagnosis. Additionally, they may encounter a correlated consequence: depression.
Individuals diagnosed with cancer are susceptible to experiencing depression, with a prevalence rate of up to 25%. It is crucial to identify these individuals, as depression frequently impacts their adherence to specific cancer treatment regimens.
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Coping with Change
Upon receiving a cancer diagnosis, individuals frequently undergo feelings of sorrow and a sense of diminished authority over their physical well-being. Their work schedule may undergo alterations or they may experience an inability to engage in employment activities while undergoing therapy. Cancer patients also endure financial strain as a result of medical expenditures, along with strain in their interpersonal connections, since their wives and children may be required to assist in their care or assume more obligations. Their profound despair among these transformations may compel individuals to seek solace by withdrawing from the world.
Cancer patients have an increased likelihood of developing depression if they have physical weakness, inadequate pain treatment, or if they have concerns about burdening their family members with additional responsibilities. Individuals who have received a cancer diagnosis, together with their carers, should remain vigilant for signs of depression. These symptoms encompass disinterest in preferred pastimes, diminished vitality, feelings of guilt or despair, difficulties with concentration, and/or contemplation of suicide.
Individuals afflicted with mesothelioma should have the opportunity to communicate their emotions to healthcare professionals. Upon receiving a diagnosis of depression, individuals and their families can cultivate adaptive strategies to provide mutual assistance and support throughout this challenging period.
Approaches for combating cancer and depression
1.) Avoid merely wearing a cheerful expression:
During cancer treatment, certain individuals may feel compelled to feign happiness. They may desire to conceal their concerns from their relatives, believing that an optimistic mindset can lead to triumph over disease. This concept might give rise to sensations of remorse when an individual experiences fear or anger. However, although a positive attitude may be beneficial, it does not increase or decrease the likelihood of overcoming cancer. It is crucial for carers to reassure their loved ones that they will get unwavering support regardless of their emotional state, be it joyous, sorrowful, fearful, or enraged.
2.) Recognise Depression Symptoms:
Carers should be aware that increased social withdrawal in their loved ones may indicate depression. Family members can be vigilant for these indicators and motivate their loved one to pursue medical intervention. Nevertheless, in the event that an individual appears profoundly despondent, it is advisable to refrain from coercing them into discussing their emotions. Under such circumstances, it is advisable for family members to schedule a meeting with the doctor of their beloved one in order to address symptoms and concerns.
3.) Aid Treatment Process:
Following a diagnosis of depression, carers can provide assistance to their loved ones by scheduling appointments for and providing transportation to counselling sessions. Family members can also provide reassurance to their loved ones that experiencing sadness during these challenging transitions is a common response, and that seeking treatment will facilitate their emotional well-being.
It is important for carers to ensure that their loved ones adhere to the prescribed schedule and dosage of antidepressant prescriptions recommended by doctors. Managing depression often involves a trial-and-error approach, hence carers can play a crucial role by advocating for their loved ones and informing doctors if a certain medicine is ineffective, suggesting the need for an alternative prescription.
4.) Psychotherapeutic interventions:
Counsellors or therapists can assist individuals with cancer in devising techniques to navigate adjustments in their everyday routines. Assistance may be required in adapting work schedules or discovering methods to remain involved and maintain a sense of productivity. Individuals diagnosed with cancer may also desire to engage the services of a counsellor in conjunction with their spouse. A diagnosis of mesothelioma imposes significant strain on families, hence it is imperative to discuss strategies for collaborating in navigating the frequently vexing healthcare and insurance systems.
Mesothelioma patients should actively seek out a counsellor that they have confidence in and should not hesitate to explore multiple therapists. Various counsellors employ diverse therapeutic approaches, so it is crucial for an individual to additionally contemplate which modality may be most suitable for them. For instance, in cognitive behavioural therapy, counsellors assist individuals in cultivating their ability to consciously focus on their emotions. Individuals engage in strategic efforts to cultivate emotional regulation and maintain a state of tranquilly.
Group therapy can be beneficial for certain individuals diagnosed with cancer. During these sessions, individuals have the opportunity to engage in conversations with others who are experiencing comparable challenges. In addition to alleviating feelings of loneliness and isolation, individuals can exchange coping mechanisms for managing changes in their professional and personal lives, as well as learn to embrace assistance from others. Group therapy sessions can serve as a platform for exchanging information regarding community resources that provide assistance to individuals with cancer and their families.
5.) Antidepressants:
Certain forms of depression exhibit positive reactions to antidepressant medications. These drugs can alter the chemical equilibrium in the brain, enabling individuals to better cope with the stressors encountered in their daily lives. Antidepressants can potentially rejuvenate the vitality and determination of individuals with cancer, enabling them to persist with their therapy. The therapeutic effects of most antidepressants often manifest after a period of three to six weeks, hence it is crucial to bear in mind that they do not provide rapid relief from symptoms.
Antidepressants should be administered under the careful guidance of a medical professional. It is important to inform the healthcare provider about all prescribed and alternative therapies in order to avoid potential interactions between specific antidepressants and cancer drugs, diets, or herbal treatments.
6.) Assistance in Managing Distractions:
Carers can provide aid to their loved ones by engaging them in activities that they often find enjoyable, such as going for walks or engaging in leisure activities like shopping or watching films. Although engaging in physical exercise can be therapeutic, it is crucial to avoid excessive exertion that may lead to exhaustion in your loved one. It is important to note that both depression and cancer therapy can cause significant physical exhaustion. Although certain individuals may require subtle motivation to leave their residence, carers should strive to strike a harmonious equilibrium between providing encouragement and avoiding excessive coercion.
7.) Provide Emotional Support:
Following a diagnosis of depression, it is crucial for a carer to offer emotional presence and support to their loved one. This is actively engaging in attentive listening to their emotions and demonstrating empathy. Individuals suffering from depression should not be subjected to phrases such as “snap out of it” or “just cheer up.” It is important for both carers and their loved ones to recognise that depression cannot be rapidly altered. However, with appropriate treatment approaches, individuals can begin to see improvement in their condition.
Primarily, carers should possess an acute awareness of the requirements and emotional states of their beloved individuals, reassuring them of the presence of assistance in combating cancer and depression, and emphasising that they are not solitary in their struggles.
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