How can anxiety be better managed? Depression, anxiety, and coping mechanisms among cancer patients

Abstract

Objective: In Malaysia, cancer is the fourth leading cause of death, which contributes to 12.6 percent of all deaths in government hospitals and 26.7 percent in private hospitals in 2016. There has been an increasing trend of 11.3 percent in 2007 up to 12.6 percent in 2016 in cancer cases, which triggers curiosity among the public on the causes, and the impact of cancer on the wellbeing of the society. The purpose of this research work is to explore the anxiety level reported by patients with breast cancer at different hospitals in Malaysia. Patients and Methods: This study employs mixed methods which are in-depth counseling in identifying patients' feelings and survey in measuring the anxiety level and coping strategies among cancer patients. The purposive sample of 80 female patients (n=80) was visited at different hospitals and institutions in Malaysia with the help of National Cancer Council Malaysia (MAKNA) and National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) staff. Results: The finding suggests that religious coping is the most used mechanism and the primary source of stress relief among participants. In addition, family support, denial, acceptance, and positive thinking are an effective treatment for anxiety among cancer patients. Conclusions: These results enhance our understanding of the psychological problems among cancer patients and guide researchers to provide an effective framework that fosters appropriate and effective spiritual health interventions.