A new study published in the journal CANCER shows, psychological support, such as, active participation in intervention sessions that focus on improving the mood, on how to cope effectively, including altering health behaviors, helps breast cancer patients live longer than others who do not receive such support.
 
Researchers led by Dr. Barbara L. Andersen of Ohio State’s Comprehensive Cancer Center and Professor of Psychology, found women who participated in psychological intervention while being treated, halved their risk of recurrence compared to women who did not participate in such programs.
 
The study based on the theory that stress reduction has a significant impact on a patient’s survival shows taking positive steps helps breast cancer patients live longer and reduces the recurrence of the disease.  Providing mental health services as part of cancer care, not only improves patient health, but even prolongs their survival.
 
This is because psychological interventions impact immune changes, which are secondary to stress hormones responsible for promoting cancer growth or spreading metastasis.  Which is why, apart from using powerful anti-tumor medications to treat cancer; it is also important to treat psychological distress as well.
 
We have often heard the saying ‘mind over matter’, a phrase that now has the backing of scientific research on cancer patients.  A support system is important in day-to-day life, but even more important when fighting an illness.
 
While, this study was carried out only on breast cancer patients, however, psychological help and coping skills are relevant to anyone battling any other type of cancer.