Penyesuaian Psikososial Pasien Kanker Payudara Pasca Terapi Pengobatan dan Pendampingannya (Studi Kasus pada 4 Pasien Kanker Payudara dalam Komunitas Gerakan Sapkandara di Kota Medan)

Abstract

Health is the most important aspect of human life. One of the significant health challenges is the changing pattern of diseases, with a high incidence of cancer, particularly breast cancer. According to data presented by Globocan, there were 68,858 cases of breast cancer in Indonesia in 2020. In Medan alone, there were 824 cases of breast cancer in 2021. A breast cancer diagnosis not only causes physical but also significant psychological impacts, such as fear, denial, and self-isolation. Psychosocial adjustment is necessary for patients undergoing treatment and requires support from companions. Family support is crucial because individuals diagnosed with cancer should not face their condition alone; instead, they should be accompanied by their loved ones. Health social workers play an important role in accompanying breast cancer patients through the diagnosis and treatment process, helping to address psychosocial issues. This research is qualitative with a case study approach. Data collection techniques include primary data obtained through observation, interviews, and documentation, as well as secondary data through journals, books, and internet sources. The results of the study indicate that psychosocial adjustment for breast cancer patients post-therapy and accompaniment is essential. A breast cancer diagnosis presents a significant challenge for patients, triggering psychosocial turmoil that affects their psychological and social conditions. After undergoing therapies such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and alternative treatments, patients experience significant physical and psychological changes, including fatigue, hair loss, stress, and emotional instability. Socially, patients tend to withdraw from their environment and only open up to close individuals. Psychosocial adjustment requires varying amounts of time, depending on the patient's knowledge about the disease and family support. Coping mechanisms involve general coping strategies like emotion-focused coping, which focuses on controlling emotions through storytelling, praying, and positive activities. There are three types of accompaniment: existential, functional, and professional. Among these, only existential accompaniment from family is evident for patients. However, functional accompaniment, such as from doctors, only occurs in the hospital, while there is no form of medical social worker accompaniment. Therefore, communities like Sapkandara have emerged to fill this gap, providing comprehensive support that includes information provision, hospital accompaniment, and moral and emotional support.