A cancer diagnosis is incredibly stressful for the person receiving the diagnosis. But those caring for the patient, both informally and formally, also experience stress, which can affect their own health and the patient’s outcome. One study showed coloring and open-studio art therapy benefits stressed caregivers of cancer patients.
research news
California fires leave lasting mental health issues for survivors
Researchers at University of California San Diego, published a novel study that looked at the psychological consequences, finding that exposure to “climate trauma” for affected residents resulted in increased and chronic mental health problems, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.
Girls are more vulnerable to harmful effects of bullying
Bullying among boys is often physical. Researchers say while many schools are cracking down on physical bullying which people can see, those actions probably are preventing and stopping bullying that’s more common among males. Among females, the bullying is often the kind that’s not visible.
Engaging in selfless acts improves symptoms of anxiety and depression
A new study found that by performing acts of kindness patients suffering from anxiety and depression saw improvements beyond other commonly prescribed therapeutic techniques. Acts of kindness were defined as “big or small acts that benefit others or make others happy, typically at some cost to you in terms of time or resources.”
Cancer patient caregivers deal with significant impact to emotional health
The number of informal caregivers who look after older adults with cancer is on the rise. Caregivers could be relatives, partners, or even friends who provide assistance to people in order to help them function. Most older people with cancer live at home and are dependent on informal caregivers for support with their cancer treatment, symptom management, and daily activities.
Meditation proves effective alternative for treating anxiety
A guided mindfulness-based stress reduction program was as effective as use of the gold-standard drug — the common antidepressant drug escitalopram — for patients with anxiety disorders, according to results of a first-of-its-kind, randomized clinical trial.