By Mark DaCosta- Many Guyanese would know that the international community is currently observing Breast Cancer Awareness month. In recent years, numerous non-governmental organisations (NGO), foundations, and charitable groups have gotten involved in the fight against the disease. This is a welcome development because according to the latest World Health Organization (WHO) data published in 2020, breast cancer deaths in Guyana reached 96 or 1.34 per cent of total deaths. The age adjusted Death Rate is 25.59 per 100,000 of Guyana’s population. Guyana is ranked 23rd in the world of diagnosed cases.
While the emphasis in Guyana has been on detecting the disease early, not much work is being done in the area of mental support for victims who have already been diagnosed. This issue should be addressed since medical experts say that a diagnosis of cancer is one of the most stressful events that a person can experience.
According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), operated by the United States Federal Government, a cancer diagnosis usually causes emotional turmoil.
Psychologists say that the core concept of “emotional turmoil” is a technical one, it includes the entire range of psychological and emotional distress patients encounter during the diagnosis, treatment, and survival period of cancer; it also includes several sub-themes, such as isolationism, fatalism, role reduction or withdrawal, feelings of guilt, and blaming others for the condition. Emotional turmoil may result in self harm or suicide.
The American Psychological Association (APA) has stated that every person diagnosed with cancer should seek psychological help.
The APA states that, “Feeling overwhelmed is a perfectly normal response to a breast cancer diagnosis. But negative emotions can cause patients to stop doing things that are good for them and start doing things that are bad for anyone but especially worrisome for those with a serious disease.
“People with breast cancer may start eating poorly, for instance, eating fewer meals and choosing foods of lower nutritional value. They may cut back on their exercise. They may have trouble getting a good night’s sleep. And they may withdraw from family and friends. At the same time, these victims may use alcohol, cigarettes, caffeine, or other drugs in an attempt to soothe themselves.
“A breast cancer diagnosis can also lead to more severe problems. For some patients, for example, the news leads to depression, which can make it more difficult for them to adjust, make the most of treatment, and take advantage of whatever sources of social support are available. Some patients become so disheartened by the ordeal of having cancer that they refuse to undergo surgery or simply stop going to radiation or chemotherapy appointments.
“Depression can also decrease women’s survival owing to suicide, research shows.”
Guyanese know that there is a shortage of mental health support resources. This is a reality that should be recognised and fixed by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government.
Meanwhile Guyanese who experience cancer should try to develop coping skills and strategies.
The NLM states that, ” Coping strategies can influence treatment outcomes and survival rates of patients with breast cancer.
“Coping strategies are specific efforts, both behavioral and psychological, that people use to combat stressful events.
Two main coping strategies are: Problem-focused and emotion-focused. Problem-focused strategies involve constructive actions for reducing or changing stressful circumstances. Emotion–focused are strategies that attempt to regulate the emotional consequences of stressful conditions and establish affective and emotional balance through control of emotion from stressful situations.
Breast Cancer Now – an international research and support organisation – suggests the following coping approaches:
Think about how you coped with previous trauma or stress – you could try using these methods again now
Use your breast care nurse or doctor – they can help you understand your diagnosis and treatment options and support you during your treatment and beyond
Be kind to yourself – it may help to take time to rest, eat healthily, keep active and, when you can, do something you enjoy
Talk to family and friends about how you’re feeling – you might like to read our tips on telling family and friends about your cancer.
It should be emphasised that all Guyanese diagnosed with cancer should seek psychological support. Patients and their loved ones should ask their oncologist about how to get such help.
