Spiritual recovery from breast cancer

Hearing a cancer diagnosis can mean a moment when life comes to a halt for many women. The word "cancer" isn't just a diagnosis; it also evokes concepts of death, loss, and uncertainty. During this period, patients often experience shock, denial, anger, and intense anxiety, while psychological support is crucial for reducing disinformation and alleviating feelings of loneliness. Clinical Psychologist Arzu Beyribey of the Psychology Department at Memorial Göztepe Hospital stated that psychological support, in addition to physical recovery, is an integral part of breast cancer treatment.

THE SURGICAL PROCESS AND WOMEN'S IDENTITY Beyribey stated that the complete removal of a breast or the removal of a limited portion during breast cancer treatment can leave not only physical but also emotional scars, saying: "Because breasts are perceived as symbols of femininity, motherhood, and social identity, their loss or change in shape can disrupt self-perception. Statements like 'I'm afraid to look in the mirror' are an indication that psychological trauma is inevitable. Psychological support is crucial in this process. While post-surgical reconstruction provides physical repair, psychotherapy is crucial for women to re-accept their own bodies and build their self-esteem."

HAIR LOSS HAS A GREAT AFFECT Beyribey stated that chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormone treatments affect the mind as much as the body, saying, "Side effects such as hair loss, weight changes, and fatigue can cause a person to withdraw from their social circle and drift into depressive feelings. This process goes hand in hand with depression, anxiety disorders, sleep problems, and social isolation."

DON'T SAY, "YOU HAVE TO BE STRONG," GIVE SPACE TO EMOTIONS Beyribey, stating that true healing is permanent when the body and soul heal simultaneously during the breast cancer treatment process, said: "Because true healing is possible not only with the removal of the tumor, but also with the patient regaining their joy of life and self-confidence. There are some points that patient relatives should also pay attention to during this period. For example, instead of saying, 'You have to be strong,' give space to emotions. Don't approach body changes critically; speak with the language of love and support. Simple supports like cooking together and offering companionship can reduce a person's feeling of loneliness."

Beyribey noted that even after treatment is completed, patients often develop a new anxiety, saying, "This is the fear of the disease recurring. Therefore, every pain or checkup can turn into a new anxiety. Many women redefine the meaning of life, strengthen their relationships, and discover their inner resilience during this process."

5 SUGGESTIONS FOR SOUL HEALING BEYRİBEY made the following recommendations for soul healing: 1- Share your feelings and seek professional support. 2- Give yourself time to adapt to the changes in your body. 3- Participate in group therapy; share similar experiences; sharing reduces feelings of loneliness. 4- Seek professional support for sexual or couples problems. 5- Try breathing, relaxation, and mindfulness techniques to cope with the fear of getting sick again.