Does a positive attitude help with cancer management?
There is a lot of belief in a positive attitude helping “fight cancer”, but it is unclear what actual connection that has in cure rates. The “Mind-Body Connection” is a popular philosophy, and the practice of yoga and meditation has helped in the management of chronic problems such as hypertension, arthritis, fatigue, anxiety disorders, etc. These practices may help in dealing with some side effects of treatment, and are worth pursuing for that benefit alone. But whether they would have any benefit in cure rates in unclear.
Recently, studies have been published in looking at non-cancer causes of death, after a cancer diagnosis. There is an almost 12 fold increase in suicide rates after a cancer diagnosis, and a 3 fold increase in cardiac deaths. And a positive attitude and a good support system would help bring down those rates.
A positive attitude would keep you engaged in your life. You would keep your appointments, follow instructions, and keep up with your exercise and nutrition (which we have previously discussed). You would be proactive and get the care that you need. If it were possible for you to keep working, your mind would remain engaged, and not get consumed with your cancer diagnosis.
All of which would help improve survival after a cancer diagnosis.