Personal and psychological characteristics of cancer patients: their dynamics and impact on the course of the disease and survival

The article presents a scientific review of foreign and domestic studies revealing the variability of the psychological characteristics of a person who has encountered cancer, as well as the role of psychological resources in the fight against the disease and their influence on the course of the disease. High susceptibility of cancer patients to depressive and anxiety disorders, deterioration of mental health, distress, and great need for emotional support indicate the necessity to include psychological support in the cancer treatment protocol. The system of attitudes towards the disease and treatment process, constructive coping strategies, the level of hope and optimism, the ability to maintain social ties and emotional contact with loved ones, which this article considers as psychological resources helping to cope with this difficult situation, can be aims of psychological work with cancer patients.