There needs to be greater awareness of patients with mental health issues, particularly among cancer patients, says the SA Society of Psychiatrists, warning that doctors may miss the diagnosis of depression and anxiety in such patients because of the false belief that these disorders are normal when facing death.
Acknowledging International Cancer Survivors Day on Sunday, the society said more than 30% of cancer patients were diagnosed with depression: cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, with an estimated one in six deaths.
In South Africa, reports TimesLIVE, 108 168 men and women were diagnosed with cancer in 2020.
Specialist psychiatrist Dr Michelle King said being diagnosed with cancer and being a survivor is a scary and emotional experience, and people might undergo a period of grief before being able to accept their diagnosis. Others may become depressed and anxious.
“If left untreated or undiagnosed it can impact the patient’s ability to function on a daily basis, including going through treatment.”
The uncertainty, after a cancer diagnosis, can trigger fear that could lead to depression and maladaptive anxiety.
“Patients may feel hopeless, despair, a sense of failure and grief as their chance to a long and healthy life is under threat.
“Pain, fatigue, loss of appetite and insomnia are symptoms experienced by many patients diagnosed with cancer. Poorly controlled pain could lead to or worsen mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.”
Diagnosing depression is challenging as there is an overlap between many of the physical symptoms, she added.
See more from MedicalBrief archives:
Some cancer patients with depression have poorer survival rates
Anxiety and depression: Link with site-specific cancer mortality
Positive psychology and the distress of the cancer experience