This week, Bobbi Conner talks with Dr. Kelly Hyland about coping with the emotional challenges of cancer. Dr. Hyland is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and a clinical psychologist at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center.
TRANSCRIPT:
Conner: I'm Bobbi Conner for South Carolina Public Radio with Health Focus here at the radio studio for the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. Feeling scared and sad are common and normal reactions to a cancer diagnosis. Doctor Kelly Hyland is here to talk about dealing with the emotional impacts of cancer and treatment, and what survivors can do to cope. Doctor Hyland is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and she's a clinical psychologist at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. Dr. Hyland, you work with cancer patients and survivors regularly. Tell us about the emotional challenges that are common as a patient begins cancer treatment.
Dr. Hyland: Being diagnosed with cancer can be understandably very scary and overwhelming. And, I think the two kind of primary emotional challenges people experience are first, feeling worried about treatment, will it work for them? How will they feel about their futures, also about their loved ones? The second big emotional challenge is feeling down or sad. And, that can be related to the effects of cancer and its treatment, maybe life not looking exactly how someone hoped or planned, or just not being able to do the things that they want to do.
Conner: Are there programs or support available to deal with the emotional fallout from cancer, right after a cancer diagnosis and during the beginning of treatment?
Dr. Hyland: Yes, there absolutely are. I would say to think of your oncology team as kind of your first line. They're going to be the people that have the information about your treatment, your disease, what sorts of things that you can expect, which often helps people to feel a little better equipped. I will say a lot of people find that that time right around diagnosis and starting treatment is the most distressing because there's so much information and you just don't know what to expect. So, I would recommend really making sure that you ask your medical team all of the questions that you have. Other things that are important at that time are leaning on social support, your family, your friends. If you need any practical supports, like rides or things like that, your social work team is going to be a great resource. And then if you're experiencing some of those emotional impacts that I talked about before, like worry or sadness, talk to your oncology team. And they can tell you about options such as a referral to meet with a psychologist, or maybe to explore medication options or both.
Conner: From your perspective, what can help individuals as they deal with the emotional challenges during cancer treatment and even beyond?
Dr. Hyland: First, just slowing down and taking a deep breath. Sometimes things can feel really overwhelming, but if we slow our body and mind and remind ourselves that we can cope, that can be really helpful. Also letting yourself experience the full range of emotions. Many people experience grief and sadness, but also gratitude and hope. And it's important to acknowledge all of those emotions are normal. In terms of seeking support, I would recommend that people talk to a trusted friend or a loved one, and also consult with your medical team because they're going to be able to point you towards resources like a referral to a psychologist like me, or maybe to a support group to talk to other people that have been through a similar experience to you. I think it's important to know that you're not alone. And finally, making sure that you're taking extra good care of yourself and continuing to do the things that bring you joy, whether that be enjoying a favorite meal or spending time with your loved ones.
Conner: Doctor Hyland, thanks for talking with us about the emotional impacts of cancer.
Dr. Hyland: You're so welcome.
Conner: From the radio studio for the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, I'm Bobbi Conner for South Carolina Public Radio.
Health Focus transcripts are intended to accurately represent the original audio version of the program; however, some discrepancies or inaccuracies may exist. The audio format serves as the official record of Health Focus programming.
