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Speaker: Ms. Jigeesha Ghosh
Topic: Beyond Tumors: Understanding the Psychological Dimensions of Cancer
Date: 30th March, 2026
Time: 11:30 AM – 1PM
Venue: Media Lab, 3rd Floor, Loreto College, Kolkata
Department of Psychology ( PG )
A lecture session on “Beyond Tumors: Understanding the Psychological Dimensions of Cancer” was conducted at the Media Lab, 3rd Floor, Loreto College, Kolkata, for the students of the Department of Psychology [UG & PG]. The session began with the introduction of the guest speaker by Dr. Sayantani Chatterjee, Head of the Department of Psychology. The session was delivered by Ms. Jigeesha Ghosh, who offered an insightful and comprehensive understanding of the psychological and emotional dimensions associated with cancer. The session began by addressing the terms and ideas that are often associated with the word cancer, setting the stage for a thoughtful exploration of the topic. Ms. Ghosh introduced the concept of psycho-oncology, explaining its significance in understanding the psychological impact of cancer on patients and their families, along with a brief explanation of chemotherapy and its role in treatment.
The session highlighted a bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach to cancer, emphasizing that the experience of the illness is shaped not only by the disease and its treatment, but also by emotional responses, coping styles, family support systems, responsibilities, and questions of meaning and existence in one’s life. She also discussed how individuals react to a cancer diagnosis and the impact of the illness on families as a whole. Through various examples and case discussions, she explained how cancer affects different groups, including children, older adults, individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, and those with pre-existing mental health conditions. The session also addressed common psychological reactions among cancer patients, such as adjustment difficulties, depression, grief, body image disturbances, fear, and phobias, especially in children.
The lecture further explored the stigma and myths surrounding cancer and explained how psycho-oncologists work with the medical team to support patients and their families. Ms. Ghosh also discussed psychological assessments, post-surgical impact, and interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and supportive psychotherapy. She highlighted the importance of sensitively breaking bad news in counselling settings without giving false hope. Overall, the session was highly informative and emphasized the crucial role of psychology in cancer care.
