Surprising link between Cancer and Mental Health
By Dr. Mathew S.P Greetings from Shalom Lifecare’s new initiative, Raahat. My wife Dr Vinita Mathew and myself, Dr Mathew S Peedikayil, are Medical Doctors. Our mission is to bring the Shalom of God into Healthcare. I would like to share three vital tips that will help us to overcome this deadly disease, Cancer, and other diseases as well. And these tips will not cost you any money!,How many would like to know them?We are from Raahat, a total person wellness centre with a vision to provide A place of comfort – refreshing, rejuvenation and restoration of mind, body, soul and spirit through whole person care. Coming to the topic at hand, Cancer. Research shows that our Mental health is closely linked to this deadly disease. Here are three ways in which mental health and Cancer are related: Unforgiveness and Cancer: Michael Barry (DMin, Fuller Theological Seminary; MA, Princeton Theological Seminary) is Director of Pastoral Care at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, where he specializes in the connection between spirituality and health. In the Forgiveness Project: The Startling Discovery of How to Overcome Cancer, Find Health, and Achieve Peace https://g.co/kgs/G6WxebF, he shows the startling link between unforgiveness and cancer. Dr. Anna Maria Clement, one of the co directors of Hippocrates Health Institute in Florida, USA, observed after 40 years of study, that anger, bitterness, unforgiveness, and anxiety are linked with cancer. There is an increased risk. How do we overcome this? As the word of God reminds us, there is a way: Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. (Col 3:12-13 NIV) Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in God Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 When the Bible tells us to be kind, compassionate and forgiving towards each other, it is actually telling us what is best for our health. All of God’s commands to us are intended to bless and to bring healing to our bodies. Forgiveness is one of the most therapeutic phenomena in the whole world. Unforgiveness and resentment is destructive to our mind and body. Dr Dallas Willard says, “Everything you can do with anger, you can do better without it”. People with an angry disposition often destroy three things in their lives: career, health, and relationships, ending up either in a jail, hospital or mortuary. We all experience anger occasionally. Few minutes of anger is legitimate, it is a natural reaction to hurt or injustice but when you dwell on it and allow it to fester it turns into resentment and bitterness. There is a popular saying, “resentment is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die” Here, let me also remind you that forgiveness is not: * Approving what others did when they clearly have done something wrong: * Excusing what they did, though it has caused you pain. ‣ Justifying or trying to nullify the other person’s actions. * Reconciliation, because it takes two people who have come to an understanding and who are on the same page. Reconciliation does not mean that I become the best of friends with people who have hurt me and allow them to hurt me again. * Denying what others did. * Being blind to what happened. * Forgetting Childhood abuse and Cancer Many years ago, I heard Dr Caroline Leaf, a christian neuroscientist say that if a person has experienced any severe form of abuse by the age of 12, be it sexual, physical, or emotional, the probability of them getting cancer in adulthood increases by 30%. A 2007 survey conducted by The Ministry of Women and Child Development in lndia revealed that over 53 percent of children in India had been subjected to one or more forms of sexual abuse and over 20 percent were subjected to severe forms of sexual abuse. Childhood abuse and trauma occurs in many forms. Cancer and Mental Health: Studies have shown that following a cancer diagnosis, people commonly experience a change in mental health, with 1 in 4 experiencing depression and many others experiencing anxiety. One of the first steps to addressing your mental health following a cancer diagnosis — and throughout your entire cancer journey — is to recognize changes in your emotions and getting help when you need it. At Raahat, we believe in both prevention and treatment. We are here for you, always! Tags: Cancer, Mental Health, Forgiveness, Love, Peace, Envy, Anger, Jealousy, Shalom
Climate Change & Mental Health
By Sujata Jayaprakash, Family & Youth Counsellor Has it ever occurred to you that climate change isn’t just an environmental issue but can also significantly impact mental health? It affects people across all ages, economic backgrounds, and regions. Though the experiences and responses may differ based on various factors, here are some key ways climate change affects mental health. As the realities of climate change become more visible, such as rising temperatures, frequent natural disasters, and extreme weather events, many people experience heightened anxiety about the future. This “climate anxiety” or “eco-anxiety” is a growing concern, particularly among young people and those deeply aware of environmental issues. The uncertainty about what life will look like for future generations are making people fearful, leading to chronic worry and feelings of helplessness. Experiencing or witnessing climate-related natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, and wildfires can also cause trauma and lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Loss of homes, livelihoods, and even loved ones can deeply affect an individual’s psychological well-being. Those who lose jobs, income, or homes due to climate disasters face heightened stress levels. These economic and social insecurities can worsen mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. We have recently witnessed that in Wayanad after the landslide and losses. In general, people feel unable to change or adapt to worsening conditions. Young people are particularly vulnerable to climate-related anxiety because they face a future that will be heavily shaped by climate change. This can lead to feelings of uncertainty, hopelessness, and frustration. Older adults may feel vulnerable due to their physical limitations in coping with extreme weather events, contributing to heightened stress and anxiety. Social disconnections due to extreme weather events or disasters can disrupt social networks and communities, leading to feelings of isolation. People may become cut off from support systems, worsening loneliness and mental health struggles. Frequent disruptions in day-to-day life due to climate events—whether it is school closures, travel delays, or loss of resources—can cause stress and strain mental well-being. The pervasive and global nature of climate change can lead some people to question their purpose and existence. They may wonder why they should plan for the future if the environment is deteriorating. This can result in apathy, hopelessness, or even nihilism, which can have a significant impact on mental health. Physical health effects such as heat stress, air pollution, and other consequences of climate change can worsen physical conditions, which in turn can impact mental health. Poor health can limit a person’s ability to function normally, leading to mental health concerns. Increased aggression and violence are also to some extent the outcome of climate change. As resources such as water and land become scarcer, conflicts may arise between groups, leading to increased tension and psychological stress. Studies have shown that extreme heat can intensify aggression and violent behavior, which could further impact community well-being and mental health. A conclusion is that climate change affects mental health by triggering anxiety, stress, trauma, and existential dread. While no one is immune, those in economically disadvantaged communities and regions more vulnerable to climate impacts often experience heightened mental health challenges. The long-term solution involves not only addressing climate change itself but also ensuring psychological support for those impacted. This could also include people not living in those areas but have families that could be affected.
Reasons for Isolation in Seniors
Sujata Jayaprakash Sujata Jayaprakash Senior citizens may isolate themselves for a variety of reasons, including physical, emotional, social, and environmental factors. Isolation can have significant negative impacts on their body, mind, and spirit, as well as on their communication, social relations, and family relationships. One of the major reasons for isolation in seniors is their physical health decline.They struggle with mobility issues due to conditions like arthritis, chronic pain orfrailty which can make it difficult for them to leave home. Some seniors also suffer from respiratory issues which limit their ability to participate in social activities.The second reason is mental health conditions like depression and anxiety whichleads to lack of interest in socializing and contribute to feelings of hopelessness orfear. There may be other reasons like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease leading toWithdrawal. The third reason could be the environmental factors which include living alone.Seniors who live by themselves may have fewer opportunities for social interaction, especially if they live in isolated areas or buildings where there are not many families they could connect to. As true as the reasons are valid for isolation it has an impact on their body, mind and spirit. Isolation is associated with higher risks of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, high blood pressure and weakened immune system. They may neglect proper nutrition, leading to malnutrition or worsening of existing health conditions. Isolation also impacts their social lifestyle, and lack of social interaction often leads to a more sedentary lifestyle, increasing the risk of obesity, diabetes and other health issues. Mental and emotional well-being is also affected by isolation. It can intensify their feelings of depression and anxiety, leading to a decline in mental health. Chronic loneliness can lead to feelings of worthlessness, despair, and a reduced quality of life.Ultimately it affects their spiritual well-being as well. Isolation can lead to a loss of meaning and purpose in life, which is often tied to social roles and connections.Seniors who are isolated may feel disconnected from their religious or spiritualcommunities, impacting their spiritual well-being. Finally, isolation has an impact on family relationships. When the seniors isolatethemselves, it leads to less frequent contact with family members, resulting inweakened family bonds. Lack of regular communication can lead tomisunderstandings and emotional distance between seniors and their familymembers. Often seniors withdraw further due to feelings of being a burden, whichcan exacerbate the sense of isolation. By addressing the factors that contribute to isolation and implementing strategies to support social engagement, we can help seniors maintain their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, as well as their relationships with family and the broader community. Let’ us “Help the Seniors” in our homes, neighborhood, society and in the larger community,
Peer Support Groups
By Sujata Jayaprakash, Family & Youth Counsellor Peer support groups play a significant role in contributing to the mental well-being of individuals by providing emotional support, shared experiences, and practical strategies for coping with mental health challenges. Feeling understood contributes to mental well-being. Being in a group with others who have similar experiences fosters a sense of understanding and empathy. Regular interactions with other group members can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation. Learning from others and hearing about their journeys and coping strategies can provide new insights and ideas for managing one’s own mental health. Also realizing that there are other people who are facing similar challenges can reduce feelings of abnormality or stigma. When people are part of a peer support group, often some members share practical tips and strategies for dealing with specific issues, such as managing anxiety or dealing with feelings of depression. Hands-on activities in a group can help develop coping mechanisms, improve communication skills and problem-solving abilities. Regular meetings provide a source of encouragement and motivation to continue working on personal goals. A lot of resource sharing also takes place in groups so people can access information about some helpful services and support networks. Here are a few practical steps to benefit from peer support groups. Find the right group that focuses on your specific mental health issue. Secondly try out a few different groups to see which one feels like the best fit in terms of atmosphere, structure and members. Engage actively in discussions and activities. Share your experiences and listen to others. Attend meetings regularly to build relationships and gain the full benefits of the support offered. Apply learnings and use the resources recommended by group members in your daily life. Build connections outside of meetings for additional support and friendship. Offer your support and encouragement to others, fostering a reciprocal and caring environment. Seek professional guidance, use peer support groups as a complement to professional therapy. If you have any doubts about the advice or strategies discussed in the group, consult with a mental health professional for clarification. By participating in peer support groups, individuals can gain valuable emotional support, learn effective coping strategies, and build a network of understanding peers, all of which contribute significantly to their overall mental well-being.
Beginning the Healing Process: A Journey through Grief
Sharon Prasad Patient Stories of Total Person Care consultations An elderly patient came to us, troubled by persistent cough and sleepless nights. She had been to several doctors, tried different medications, but nothing seemed to help. During our consultation, we took time to do a complete psycho-social evaluation and discovered the heart of the issue. A few years ago she had lost her son who was in his late 20s. He had struggled with depression which eventually claimed his life. This loss left her devastated. To avoid painful conversations about her son, she withdrew from connecting with her friends or going for walks with her neighbors in the society. She spent her days consumed by thoughts of her son’s life and death. This overwhelming grief took a toll on her physical health. Despite various treatments, her symptoms persisted. We understood that her physical ailments were deeply intertwined with her emotional pain. We reassured her that grieving is a natural process and that it was okay to feel the way she did. We provided her with a safe space to express her emotions and listened to her as she shared her story, her memories, and her sorrow. By acknowledging her grief and allowing her to talk about it, we began to see a change. She slowly started to re-engage with her daily activities and connect with people again. Her cough and sleeplessness began to improve as she worked through her emotions. This story highlights the importance of total person care. Sometimes, physical symptoms are manifestations of deeper emotional wounds. By addressing the whole person – mind, body, soul and spirit – we can truly begin the healing process. Understanding and compassion can make all the difference.
Mental Health & Elderly
By Sujata Jayaprakash, Family & Youth Counsellor The elderly population faces a high risk of mental health issues due to a variety of factors including biological changes, social factors, and pre-existing health conditions. Focus on the quality of life Understanding these risks and implementing effective prevention and after-care strategies can significantly improve their quality of life. This encompasses a holistic approach to healthcare as it considers all aspects of a person’s well-being. Dealing with changes in the physical, emotional, and social realm Biological changes like Alzheimer’s diseases and other forms of dementia are more common among the elderly. Illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes and arthritis can also affect the mental health of the elderly. Another factor that majorly contributes to mental health issues is hearing and vision loss which leads to social isolation and depression among both men and women. Often the elderly are affected by the loss of their spouse, friends and reduced social networks which leads to a feeling of loneliness. They also seem to lose their identity and purpose when they transition from active work life to retirement life. Slower processing speeds and difficulties with attention and problem solving is often frustrating for them. Another factor that adds to their mental health burden is their medication side effects. The elderly population are often on multiple medications as per their health conditions which impacts their mental health well-being. Encouragement to take ownership for their well-being Prevention is better than cure so there are a few things that we could encourage our elderly population to do to help them with their mental well-being even while they are aging, what we can call aging gracefully. We need to encourage them to exercise regularly to stay physically fit and improve their mood and cognitive function. They need to also eat a balanced diet to support their brain health and overall well-being and finally to go for their regular medical check-ups for any early detection and management of chronic conditions. A supportive community and a safe environment There are also other factors that will help with mental well-being and that is engaging in activities for mental stimulation e.g. puzzles, reading and learning new skills, to keep the brain active. Family members must regularly interact with them to make them feel strong family connections. However, sometimes we have missed most of all or a few of the above knowingly or unknowingly so we need to have the after-care strategies in place to help and support the elderly. One of the most helpful are the support groups where they can interact with peer groups and share their experiences and strategies. Providing structured activities and social interaction opportunities helps them have a safe community around them. We also need to ensure that their living environments are safe and supportive to prevent risks like falling etc. Above all every family member, big or small, needs to interact with them and make sure they are cared for and appreciated and encourage them to keep their spirits high and make them happy. By addressing these factors and implementing comprehensive prevention and after-care strategies, we can significantly improve the mental health and overall well-being of the elderly population.
Listening with Compassion: A Journey from Persistent Cough to Wellbeing
Sharon Prasad Patient Stories of Total Person Care consultations In our line of work, we often encounter patients with complex, interwoven issues that extend beyond their immediate physical symptoms. One such case involved a patient who consulted our team due to a long-standing cough that kept her awake at night. Despite trying numerous home remedies and over-the-counter medications, she found no relief and was growing increasingly frustrated and exhausted. During our detailed history-taking, we delved deeper into her emotional and mental wellbeing. It was then that she revealed a significant aspect of her struggle: she was being taunted because of her weight, which was severely affecting her mental health. In an attempt to lose weight quickly, she had been skipping meals, a practice that was not only unhealthy but was also exacerbating her physical symptoms. We recognized that her persistent cough was linked to increased acidity, which in turn was caused by her erratic eating habits and the stress she was experiencing. The disturbed sleep she was suffering from was a direct consequence of this vicious cycle. What stood out in this interaction was the power of simply listening to her story. By taking the time to understand how she was feeling emotionally, we were able to identify the root causes of her physical symptoms. This empathetic approach made a significant impact. She felt heard and understood, which motivated her to take positive steps towards modifying her lifestyle. With our support, she began to adopt healthier eating habits and found ways to manage her stress. As a result, her acidity decreased, and her persistent cough finally began to subside. Her sleep improved, and she started to regain her overall sense of wellbeing. This case underscores the importance of holistic care that considers both the physical and emotional aspects of a patient’s health. It reaffirms our commitment to listening with compassion and addressing the underlying factors that contribute to our patients’ conditions. By fostering an environment of understanding and support, we can help our patients embark on a path to better health and a more balanced life
Chronic Disease Management through Regular Follow-Ups
Dr. Vinita Mathew Living with a chronic disease like diabetes, heart disease, asthma can be challenging, but regular follow-ups with your primary care physician (PCP) can make a significant difference in managing your condition and improving your overall health. As a family physician focused on whole person care, I cannot stress enough the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with your PCP and committing to regular check-ins. There are some great benefits of regular follow-ups Tracking the progression of your condition through Continuity of Care Your PCP knows your medical history, understands your unique needs, and can track the progression of your condition over time. This familiarity allows them to make more informed decisions about your treatment plan and catch any potential issues early on. Detecting complications before they become serious through appropriate Preventive Measures Regular follow-ups also provide an opportunity for your PCP to monitor your vital signs, order necessary tests, and adjust your treatment plan accordingly. By staying proactive, you can avoid costly and time-consuming hospitalizations and emergency room visits. Taking into account your physical, mental, and emotional well-being through Personalized Care Your PCP understands that managing a chronic disease can be overwhelming and is available to support you every step of the way. Regular follow-ups allow your PCP to address any concerns you may have and provide you with the resources and support you need to thrive. Empowering you with knowledge and tools needed to manage your condition effectively Regular follow-ups helps you to take an active role in your healthcare. Your PCP can provide you with the resources for lifestyle modifications, medication management, and self-monitoring techniques. By working closely with your PCP, you can develop a sense of control over your health and feel more confident in your ability to manage your chronic disease. Make the most of time by preparing well for your Appointment Make a list of any questions or concerns you may have, and be sure to bring any relevant medical records or test results. It’s also a good idea to keep a journal of your symptoms and any changes you’ve noticed since your last appointment. Positive impact on health through regular follow-ups Many patients with chronic diseases have shared that despite their initial hesitation, after committing to see their primary care physician regularly and following the recommended treatment plan, their conditions have stabilized, and they were able to reduce her medication dosage, attain optimal weight and reported feeling more energetic and confident in their ability to manage her condition. Remember, your PCP is here to support you and help you manage your chronic disease effectively. By committing to regular follow-ups and working closely with your PCP, you can take control of your health and live your best life.
Focus on what matters: The Power of Prevention
Dr. Vinita Mathew, Family Physician & Counsellor (M.B.B.S, PGD Counselling Psychology, PGD Mental Health) Concern for the overall well-being of my patients is something that drives me in my endeavor to practice whole person care. My approach to healthcare goes beyond simply treating illnesses when they arise. I firmly believe in the power of prevention and health promotion to help them live their healthiest, most vibrant life. The Importance of Prevention Many of the leading causes of death and disability today, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and many infectious diseases, are preventable. By making healthy lifestyle choices and utilizing preventive services like regular screenings, health check-ups and immunizations, we can avoid many serious health problems before they start. Prevention is also more cost-effective than treatment. Investing in your health now can save you significant time, money, and suffering down the road. Regular check-ups, open communication with your doctor, and proactive steps to improve your health are some of the best investments each of you can make. Empowering You to Take Charge The role of a family physician is to partner with our patients and provide them with the knowledge, tools and support to take charge of their well-being. We work closely with every individual under our care to: Assess their unique health risks and needs Set achievable goals for improving their health Develop a personalized prevention plan tailored to their lifestyle Provide guidance, encouragement and accountability along the way Together, we can create sustainable healthy habits that become a natural part of their daily life. Small steps, consistently taken, can lead to profound improvements in how they look and feel. Whole Person Care Prevention is firmly grounded in whole person care. This means looking at an individual’s physical, mental, emotional and social well-being as interconnected parts of a whole. Optimal health requires nurturing all aspects of yourself. For example, managing stress is just as important as eating well and exercising. Cultivating strong social connections and finding meaning in life also contribute immensely to health and longevity. The Time is Now The best time to prioritize prevention is now. I encourage all readers to schedule your annual check-up with your family physician if you haven’t already. Go prepared with questions and an open mind. It’s critical that you work together with your physician to create a prevention plan that fits your unique needs and lifestyle. Remember, you have the power to transform your health. With the right knowledge, tools and support, you can avoid many serious illnesses and live your best life. Today is the day to get started!
Recognizing the Signs: A Story of Timely Intervention and Recovery
Sharon Prasad Patient Stories of Total Person Care consultations In one of our recent experiences, a support team member attended a prayer meeting and observed a woman behaving unusually. She was talking and whispering to imaginary people, and had been telling her husband that their neighbors were troubling her—claims that her husband had verified to be untrue. Concerned about her behavior, our team member referred her to us for a more thorough evaluation. Upon conducting an initial assessment, we were able to diagnose that she was exhibiting symptoms of psychosis. Psychosis is a condition that can profoundly impact a person’s perception of reality, often leading to distressing delusions and hallucinations. It was clear that she needed immediate and specialized care. Thanks to the timely intervention and diagnosis, we were able to initiate an appropriate treatment plan. With the right combination of medication, therapy, and continuous support, she began to show significant improvement. Her delusions and hallucinations gradually subsided, and she started to regain a more accurate perception of reality. Today, she is functioning well and has made remarkable strides in her recovery. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and intervention in mental health issues. It highlights the critical role that attentive and compassionate support can play in identifying and addressing the needs of those who may be struggling silently. Our team remains dedicated to providing comprehensive care that encompasses not only physical health but also mental wellbeing. We are committed to ensuring that every individual receives the help they need to lead a healthy, fulfilling life. This experience underscores our belief in the power of timely intervention and the positive outcomes that can be achieved with proper treatment and support.