Few events are as stressful as a diagnosis of cancer. As the stress level increases, the outpouring of the adrenal cortex hormone (cortisol) also increases.The onset of cancer appears similarly allied in humans, with the immune system highly responsive to emotional pitfalls. It is well established that when the individual is emotionally challenged, cancer has a significant advantage (Levy et al. 1987). Anxiety has a negative effect on the immune system and response and will also have a negative effect on the body to fight against the disease.
The following stress-associated situations and personality types are associated with breast cancer:
The use of denial or repression as a coping strategy, An experience of separation or loss, A history of stressful life experiences, A tendency toward melancholy and hopelessness (this trait has, since antiquity, been associated with uterine and breast cancers), A personality type characterized by conflict avoidance. It is theorized that the genes that cause one to avoid conflict are the same genes that increase susceptibility to cancer (Goodkin et al. 1986; Darmon 1993). Also, psychological stress induces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-10 (Maes et al. 2000), which play a role in malignancies. Oncologists often suggest stress management, such as meditation, yoga and breathing exercises, guided imagery, or spirituality, to help calm and relax the patient. Because the cells responsible for cancer surveillance work best in an environment favouring confidence and calm, it is important that the message springing from our thoughts and transmitted to cells is commensurate with healing. Fright, pessimism, and melancholy send uncertain instructions and the cells respond with a feeble effort. The enduring message (fear or assurance, despair or hopefulness, laughter or tears) reflects our hour-to-hour psyche and sets the tone for health victories or failures.