Exploring the Impact of Self-compassion and the relationship of Perceived Stress and Quality of life among Cancer Patients

Abstract

Experiencing a cancer diagnosis and going through treatment can lead to turmoil potentially resulting in lasting negative effects. Self-compassion plays a role in helping individuals maintain or improve their quality (QOL) while managing stress related to challenging life circumstances and hardships. The current research aimed to examine how cancer patients perceive stress, QOL and self-compassion are correlated. It also investigated how self-compassion plays a mediating function in the relationship of perceived stress and QOL. The study involved 84 grown up cancer patients aged between 18 and 50 years. These individuals were selected from hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan using a purposive sampling method. The evaluation tools used included the Perceived Stress Scale, the Self-compassion Scale and The World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version (WHOQOL BREF). Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS 25 software with Correlation and Process Macro techniques. Results displayed a positive link between self-compassion and QOL (r=.683; p<.01) as well as a significant negative connection between perceived stress and QOL (r=-.690; p<.01). Additionally, the mediation analysis discovered that self-compassion played a mediating part in the relationship between perceived stress and QOL. This study could be valuable in addressing psychological aspects related to cancer to enhance the QOL for patients. Implementing interventions/policies focusing on self-compassion in cancer care programs, initiating support systems for wellbeing and providing training, for healthcare providers and caregivers are steps forward.