Journaling as a Science-Backed Tool for Emotional Resilience in Cancer Care

Facing cancer brings immense emotional stress—anxiety, uncertainty, and fear, and that is why patients need ways to cope. Journaling has been shown in recent studies to be more than just a “feel better” activity. It actually helps reduce psychological distress, improve emotional resilience, and even enhance quality of life during treatment or recovery.

What recent research shows

A randomised controlled trial in Malaysia with 92 patients having advanced cancer found that just one week of mindful gratitude journaling significantly reduced their suffering score and improved anxiety, depression, and spiritual well-being compared with baseline.

A 2024 pilot study with Black breast cancer survivors utilized gratitude journaling twice a week for eight weeks. The intervention led to a significant improvement in spiritual well-being and a meaningful boost in exercise self-efficacy, highlighting the broad benefits of structured journaling.

How these findings reinforce key benefits

These studies confirm several things:

• Short-term journaling works; even weekly sessions for 1–3 weeks can improve mood, reduce suffering, and enhance quality of life.
• Gratitude or mindful journaling is particularly effective in helping patients shift focus from fear or pain to awareness and reflection.
• Journaling strengthens resilience by improving emotional balance, spiritual well-being, and coping strategies.
  

Practical tips for cancer patient

• Gratitude journaling: Write once or twice a week about things you’re thankful for, no matter big or small.
• Mindful writing: Focus on your present emotions, sensations, or hopes rather than just frustrations.
• Short, consistent sessions: Even 5–10 minutes a few times a week can make a difference.
  

Why Journaling Matters

Journaling gives patients a space to slow down and sort through their emotions. When thoughts of fear or uncertainty feel overwhelming, putting them into words can make them easier to understand and manage. Over time, this simple habit helps patients notice patterns in their moods, understand what eases their stress, and feel more in control of their journey. Instead of carrying every worry in their mind, journaling allows them to release it onto paper, creating room for calmness and clarity for patients during treatment and recovery.