Cancer patients were urged yesterday to find a formula for "the healing power of happiness", even in the face of life-threatening illness.
Addressing the inaugural Irish Cancer Society patient support group public conference, psychologist Mr Robert Holden, founder of the UK Happiness Project, said cancer was not just a label but "an experience in which various gifts and opportunities may emerge".
There are 20,000 new cases of cancer diagnosed in the State every year. The Happiness Project is a centre for research and wellbeing which is exploring the psychology of being well and not just the diagnosis and repair of symptoms.
"There are no negative emotions, just emotions like anger, depression and fear that are handled negatively and can result in unhealthy bodily reactions," Mr Holden said. "Even in the face of highly traumatic illness such as cancer . . . we try to help the patient find an approach that is as positive as possible."
A spokesperson for the Irish Cancer Society said that in addition to the benefits of happiness to patients, recovery was "significantly better" if a patient received vital emotional support during and after the initial stages of the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
Ms Mary Casey, principal social worker at St Luke's Hospital, which specialises in cancer care and treatment, said patients and families should be informed of the help available to them.
"Patients should not hesitate to ask if they feel the need to discuss their situation further," she said. "For those who feel especially vulnerable, it is important that we acknowledge this and address patients needs as comprehensively as possible."