Madrid, December 16, 2024.- For most people, Christmas is synonymous with friends and family get-togethers, celebrations and happy times. However, for cancer patients, this period can bring with it a sense of emotional discord, when social expectations often clash with their own reality. According to Maribel González, a psycho-oncologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid – Hospiten, "the cancer patient can feel trapped between what they should be feeling and what they are actually experiencing, creating an added emotional burden".
Faced with this situation, acceptance of one’s emotions becomes a key tool for cancer patients. It is vitally important that they allow themselves to live with their emotional state without becoming self-judgmental and allow themselves full license to feel the way they do. “This does not mean adopting a passive attitude. In addition to recognizing our emotions, we learn to manage them in the most appropriate way ", clarifies the psycho-oncologist.
As part of this process, González continues, it is essential to organize activities compatible with the physical and emotional state of the patient, so they feel neither isolated nor obligated to participate in social events. It is important to reduce self-demand, to encourage self-awareness and make decisions that generally contribute to greater physical and emotional well-being," explains the specialist, stressing that guidance to family and friends on how to provide their loved ones with support, either via small gestures or respecting moments of introspection, can also be a vital aid to fostering a supportive environment.
Emotional well-being of the patient without neglecting the close environment
The close environment plays a crucial role in the patient's emotional well-being. The psycho-oncologist stresses that it is essential to maintain continuous and open communication, "asking them directly what they need and how they can be helped". In this way, the support provided can be adapted to their daily needs, which can range from a Christmas outing to distract them from the disease to offering a safe space to let out their feelings. In her words: "it is important that those around them accept and validate the patient's emotions, respecting both their moments of joy and sadness, without trying to force a specific mood," she says.
Likewise, the psycho-oncologist stresses that family members should not neglect their own well-being. The emotional burden of accompanying a cancer patient can be considerable, so it is essential to allow yourself to feel and manage your own pain. Looking after oneself properly is essential, as it not only helps the family member, but also enables them to be more focused and on hand for the patient.
As the psycho-oncologist concludes, "When going through situations like this, Christmas does not always have to adjust to expectations, but can always be a good time to remind us of mutual support and affection". Accepting one’s emotions, finding a balance between enjoyable activities and maintaining sincere communication is fundamental for making this period as bearable as possible.