Enhancing well-being and building resilience in people living with cancer part 2: a central role for nurses

Abstract

Receiving a new diagnosis of cancer or of its recurrence is distressing and there are increasing numbers of people living with the disease, some taking continuous treatment, as well as others who have been cured. Living with cancer and the possibility of recurrence requires psychological strength to deal with the treatment, effects of the illness and uncertainty about the future. The attributes of self-efficacy and psychological well-being can reduce the effects of chronic stress. Excellent symptom control is essential and fatigue, the most prevalent and often most distressing symptom for those with cancer, requires targeted support. Well-being and psychological resilience may be improved by specific actions and psychological approaches, some of which are encompassed by Foresight Mental Capital and Well-being Project’s (2008) five ways to well-being framework, which can be used to deliver personalised care. This is the second of a two-part article that reviews interventions promoting well-being and resilience in patients living with cancer. It describes the framework and suggests practical ways in which clinicians can integrate it and other interventions into clinical practice. It also offers time out exercises and a multiple choice quiz to aid readers’ learning and test their knowledge.