The Importance of Mental Health Support During Cancer Treatment

When it comes to mental health, now more than ever, every action counts. There are important reasons to start talking about mental illness. Mental illness is one of the most widespread health issues in the country, with consequences for everyone, and is relatively hard to see. One in five Canadians will experience a mental illness at some point in their life. (1) By the age of 40, one in two will have or have had a mental illness. (2) It is likely that most will be cautious about talking to a coworker, friend, or family member about the issue, let alone seek treatment. While you may not experience mental illness first-hand, it is likely that you know someone who has or will have a mental illness. And although the numbers may be different in other countries, the trend is similar in Western society.

The prevalence of anxiety/depression in those treated for cancer is thought to be at least double that of the general public. (3) Moreover, the BC Cancer Foundation reports that patients with cancer who are experiencing difficulty with mental health have poorer treatment outcomes and an average shortened lifespan by two years. (4)

A survey of approximately 13,000 cancer survivors across Canada found that 78% experienced an emotional concern within 1-3 years of their cancer treatments. (5) The Mental Health Commission of Canada reports that the most common mental health disorders of patients with cancer or cancer survivors are:

• major depression, 
• generalized anxiety disorder, 
• adjustment disorder, panic disorder, and 
• post-traumatic stress disorder. (3) 

It is important to note that this can occur at any point in a patient’s cancer journey, from screening to diagnosis, treatment to survivorship, or end-of-life care. 

Beyond cancer itself, anxiety and depression can manifest from:

• uncertainty,
• change of independence, 
• financial and legal concerns, 
• altered body image and self-esteem, or 
• changes to their activities of daily living and relationships. (6)

While common ways to support one’s mental health include counseling, social support, exercise, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals, mindfulness meditation is emerging as a support tool. This has been shown to be effective for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation and may also help improve the immune response. (7) There are many different techniques and approaches to mindfulness, the majority of which are very cost-effective and can be done from the comfort of one’s home.

Today and every day, we must keep the conversations going to help the people of our communities. For more information on how to support your cancer patients, especially those who may be experiencing depression and/or anxiety, consider the Advanced Integrative Oncology Palliative Care Course by the Integrative Oncology Institute: https://integrativeoncologyinstitute.ca/advanced-integrative-oncology-palliative-care-course/