There's often a belief that psychological support is only worth seeking when emotions are completely out of control, a crisis is occurring, or when you simply "can't take it anymore." However, psycho-oncology isn't a last-ditch solution—and it's not intended exclusively for people in crisis.
Cancer is an experience that affects much more than just the body. Diagnosis, treatment, side effects, subsequent tests, changes in daily functioning, uncertainty, and the need to make difficult decisions also impact emotions, relationships, a sense of security, and the way people think about the future. I now know how important it is for a patient's mental well-being to be regularly monitored at every stage of the disease, as emotional distress is a common and natural part of the oncology experience.
Not every difficult emotion indicates a problem requiring therapy. Post-diagnosis fear, anxiety about test results, anger, a sense of injustice, or sadness are often appropriate responses to the experience of illness. So it's not about "not feeling" or always remaining calm and strong. The problem usually begins when the emotional burden becomes so heavy that it becomes increasingly difficult to regain even a little space for daily life.
So when is it worth considering psycho-oncological support?
It's worth it when anxiety begins to take over. When your mind constantly races ahead, analyzing scenarios, it's difficult to sleep or focus on anything other than your illness. The uncertainty surrounding treatment, waiting for results, or the next medical decision can be very mentally taxing. And while a certain level of anxiety is natural, you don't have to be alone with it.
Psycho-oncological support can also be helpful when emotional overload occurs. When everything seems "too much": information, decisions, conversations, responsibilities, or the expectations of those around them. Many people describe this state as constant tension, a flood of thoughts, or a feeling that they no longer have emotional space for further challenges. For some, changes in their bodies and daily functioning prove particularly challenging. Treatment can affect fitness, appearance, energy, sexuality, or a sense of independence. Sometimes, there is difficulty rebuilding oneself or a sense of loss of what life was like before. This is also a time when a conversation with a psycho-oncologist can help organize emotions and regain a sense of control.
It's also worth considering support when relationships become more difficult. The disease affects not only the person with the illness but also their loved ones. Fatigue, misunderstandings, difficulty in conversation, or a sense of loneliness despite the presence of others can occur. Sometimes, psycho-oncological support helps find a language to talk about difficult issues—whether with a partner, children, family, or friends.
It's worth paying particular attention to moments when low mood, withdrawal, lack of energy, or loss of interest in everyday activities persist. Research shows that symptoms of anxiety and depression are more common in people with cancer than in the general population, and recognizing and treating them remains an important element of modern oncology care. Unaddressed mental health challenges can impact not only quality of life but also functioning during therapy and adherence to medical recommendations.
It's also worth dispelling one myth: a psycho-oncologist isn't there to convince you that "you have to think positively." They won't take away the space from fear, sadness, or anger. It's not about quickly fixing emotions or forcing optimism. Often, the first step is simply creating a safe space where you can say, "I'm scared," "I've had enough," or "I don't know how to get through this"—without judgment or pressure to do better.
Psychological support can reduce anxiety, distress, and depressive symptoms, improve quality of life, and support adaptation to illness and treatment. Perhaps the most important question is, "Would it be any easier if I didn't have to go through this alone?" Because support doesn't have to be sought only when you lack strength. Sometimes it's worth reaching out for it to regain some of that strength.
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Author: Katarzyna Binkiewicz, M.A.
