The majority of Nigerians believe that cancer and mental health issues are a white man's disease. Cancer, on the other hand, is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020 alone. (Nearly one out of every six deaths.) (WHO)
As a result, one of the primary goals of World Cancer Awareness Day is to educate the public about the different types of cancer and the steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the disease.
This includes promoting healthy lifestyle choices such as eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly, abstaining from tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption and getting regular screenings.
Cancer is not only a physical disease; it can also have serious consequences for a person's mental health. The emotional and psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis is enormous, and it can result in a wide range of mental health issues.
1. Depression is one of the most common psychological issues in cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can cause feelings of helplessness due to stress and uncertainty. This can be exacerbated further by physical symptoms of cancer and treatment side effects such as fatigue and pain.
2. Anxiety is another common mental health issue among cancer patients. Worry and anxiety can result from the fear of recurrence and the unknown. This can be exacerbated by the financial and practical worries that frequently accompany a cancer diagnosis.
3. Cancer patients may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The trauma of a cancer diagnosis, as well as the physical and emotional stress of treatment, can result in PTSD symptoms. These include cancer-related flashbacks, nightmares, and memory avoidance.
As regards helping loved ones with cancer, the Center for Disease Control(CDC) suggests the following:
Be sensitive to your loved one’s feelings, and encourage him or her to talk about them with you and other family members and friends.
If your loved one is worried about money, here is a list of CDC resources that may be able to help.
Help your loved one stay as active as possible. Physical activity has been linked to a lower risk of depression, as well as lower rates of recurrence of certain kinds of cancer, among survivors.
Encourage your loved one to join a support group. Ask your loved one’s doctor for a referral to mental health and social support services.
People suffering from cancer-related mental health issues have several treatment options available to them. Talk therapy, medication, and support groups are examples of these.
To summarize, people living with cancer and their loved ones must understand the emotional and psychological effects of the disease and seek help when necessary.
*It is important to note that not all cancer patients experience mental health issues; however, if they do, they should seek professional assistance.*
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