The Concept of Resilience and Spirituality among Cancer Surviving Women

Abstract

Cancer has long caused fear and significant emotional and physical aftermaths. Resilience is needed in navigating the physical and emotional challenges caused by cancer because it provides cancer patients with strength and adaptation skills throughout their journey. This study aims to understand the concept of resilience and spirituality among employed cancer women. A phenomenological approach was used to understand the conceptualisation of resilience and spirituality held by ten employed women in Klang Valley suffering from different types of cancer. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, assisted by the participants' social media updates on their cancer journey. Their activities related to resilience and spirituality from the day of diagnosis until returning to work were observed. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. Six themes emerged from the data collected: (a) resilience through painful experience, (b) resilience through acceptance, (c) cognitive resilience, (d) emotional/psychological resilience, (e) behavioural resilience, (f) spiritual strengthening. The study postulates some insights in understanding the conceptualisation of resilience and spirituality among cancer women in balancing their work and family responsibilities. Mental health practitioners and counsellors may benefit from the study's results as guidelines for vigorously helping women to achieve resilience.