The Invisible Dimension of Breast Cancer: The Vital Importance of Psychosocial Support
- 7 October 2025
Cyprus American University Department of Counseling and Psychological Counseling Chair Prof. Dr. Demet Karakartal emphasized in her statement made during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October 1-31, that breast cancer should be addressed not only as a physical illness but also in terms of its psychosocial dimensions.
Prof. Dr. Karakartal stated that the breast cancer process begins with suspicious findings prior to diagnosis and causes anxiety, fear, uncertainty, and social adjustment problems in individuals until the diagnosis, treatment, and post-treatment periods. Karakartal emphasized that psychosocial support plays a critical role at every stage of the treatment process, stating that every individual diagnosed with breast cancer goes through a different emotional journey, and that the anxiety, fear, self-confidence issues, and uncertainty encountered during this process vary from patient to patient.
Prof. Dr. Karakartal made the following statement in his announcement:
Psychosocial support plays a vital role at every stage of the process. It helps patients maintain their emotional balance, cope with stress, comply with treatment, and adapt to social life. At the same time, involving family and close friends in the process strengthens the support network.
