The Research Desk
Discussing death in cancer care can enhance patient well-being and personal growth.
Missed opportunities to promote flourishing in cancer care: a brief examination of multiple myeloma.
- Meaning
- Growth
Tuckey, N., Wardill, H., Symons, X., Cantley, M., Ali, K., Beer, H., Crawford, G., Yong, A., Iasiello, M.
In plain language
This study explores how concepts from well-being science, like meaning, purpose, and deep personal connections, can enhance the experience of patients with incurable cancers, specifically focusing on multiple myeloma. Through interviews with patients and healthcare professionals, the research identifies a gap in addressing the psychological needs of these patients, who often experience personal growth through acceptance and meaning-making but also feel isolated in their journey. The reluctance of healthcare providers to engage in conversations about death is highlighted as a missed opportunity to support patient flourishing at the end of life.
The study suggests that integrating discussions about death and dying into cancer care, alongside treatment, can promote psychological well-being. This approach does not diminish hope but rather fosters a sense of dignity and purpose, potentially leading to a more holistic care experience. The authors advocate for using existing therapeutic approaches like dignity therapy and meaning-centered psychotherapy to address these needs.
Key findings
- Patients with multiple myeloma reported personal growth through acceptance and meaning-making after diagnosis.
- There is a significant feeling of loneliness among patients due to a lack of discussions about death with clinicians.
- Healthcare professionals often avoid discussions about death, focusing instead on maintaining hope through treatments.
- Existing therapies like dignity therapy and meaning-centered psychotherapy can help integrate discussions about death without reducing hope.
- Multidisciplinary support can bridge the gap between maintaining treatment hope and preparing for end-of-life realities.
Why it matters
This research highlights the importance of addressing existential concerns in cancer care to promote psychological well-being and personal growth at the end of life. By integrating discussions about mortality, patients can find greater meaning and connection, enhancing their overall quality of life even in the face of terminal illness.
Try this today
Readers can advocate for open conversations with healthcare providers about end-of-life issues, seeking therapies that address meaning and dignity. Encouraging such discussions can help patients and families find peace and purpose during difficult times, potentially improving mental health outcomes.