Oral cancer and social life: How to face the physical and psychological challenges posed by cancer?

The treatment of oral cancer is not only a physical challenge but also often has a significant impact on the social life and psychological state of patients. Common treatments for oral cancer include surgery, treatment and chemotherapy, which can lead to changes in the appearance of the mouth, face or neck, such as swelling of the face, mouth ulcer, confusion or difficulty of swallowing. These changes may affect the self-confidence and psychological state of patients and, in turn, their social life.In the course of treatment, patients may feel ashamed or uneasy, especially when they communicate with others in social settings. In the face of this predicament, patients can help to ease their emotions and rebuild their self-confidence through the support of family, friends and psychologists. At the same time, a number of oral rehabilitation treatments, such as speech therapy, facial reconstruction surgery and prosthetics, can help to restore the face function and appearance of patients and reduce social barriers.In addition, social support is important for the rehabilitation of persons with oral cancer. Actively participating in social activities and maintaining contact with friends and family members not only helps patients to maintain a positive mindset but also promotes their recovery. As a result, oral cancer patients should, to the extent possible, find self-appropriate forms of socialization during treatment and reduce the psychological burden of physical appearance or functional impairment.In social settings, patients may encounter challenges such as the eyes of others, misunderstandings or exclusion. To address these challenges, patients can learn some coping strategies, such as preparing answers to awkward questions in advance or choosing to interact with people who understand and support themselves. At the same time, patients can gain strength and courage by joining oral cancer support groups to communicate with other patients with similar experiences.At the psychological level, people with oral cancer may experience emotional reactions such as anxiety, depression, etc. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behaviour therapy, helps patients to adjust their perception of their situation and learn more effective coping strategies. In addition, non-traditional treatments, such as art therapy and music therapy, have proved to be positive for improving the mental health of patients.With the support of families and friends, patients can better adapt to the changes brought about by treatment. The understanding and encouragement of family and friends is an important force for patients to rebuild their self-confidence and actively face life. They can provide substantive assistance by listening to patients ‘ concerns, participating in the patient ‘ s treatment decision-making process and helping patients to cope with difficulties in their daily lives.In the working environment, people with oral cancer may need to face misperceptions from colleagues and questions about their ability to work. In this case, the patient can communicate with the employer, seek flexible working arrangements or adjust work responsibilities to ease the pressure on work. At the same time, patients can legally protect their rights and interests and ensure that they receive reasonable support and respect in the workplace.In public life, patients may fear that changes in their appearance may lead to public discomfort or discrimination. In order to deal with this situation, patients may consider the use of assistive tools such as masks, scarfs or wigs to cover the appearance of changes in treatment. In addition, patients can reduce misunderstandings and prejudices by participating in public education activities to raise public awareness of oral cancer.Finally, patients need to learn to accept themselves when facing physical appearance and psychological challenges. Accepting their own change, recognizing that treatment is for health and life, not for external images, is an important step in rebuilding life for patients. Through self-admission, patients can be more open to others and less burden of self-consciousness, thus better integrated into social life.Overall, people with oral cancer need multifaceted support and assistance in facing the physical and psychological challenges of treatment. Through family, friends, medical teams and social support, patients can gradually overcome difficulties, rebuild their self-confidence, reintegrate into social life and lead positive and healthy lives.