Psychological support needs of female breast cancer patients

Abstract

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore and understand the psychological support needs of female breast cancer patients, and to achieve a deeper insight of the meaning of their experience. Four participants spoke about their experience of psychological support while facing breast cancer, and what they would have wanted to modify. The Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of this research led to the emergence of six superordinate themes, which were (1) The Emotional Impact of Adverse Situation, (2) “I am not a number”: The Significant Importance of the Doctor-Patient Relationship, (3) Through thick and thin: The Dire Necessity to be Loved and Cared for by a Partner / Spouse, (4) A Sense of Belonging and Understanding: The Community Framework, (5) Information: Battling the Fear of the Unknown, (6) One to One Therapy: A Controversial Topic. The results are discussed in light of the literature related to psychological support and further suggestions and recommendations are given.