Exploring women’s cancer experiences through the psychological lens of existentialism and artistic expression

Introduction. Breast and gynecological cancers are significant global health challenges, affecting millions of women annually. In 2022, over 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer, and 1.4 million with gynecological cancer. In Lithuania, 1,700 new breast cancer cases and 900 gynecological cancer cases were diagnosed in 2021. Cancer, as a global genetic disease, causes not only severe physical challenges but also social, emotional, psychological, and existential difficulties. Research shows that female cancer patients experience depression, along with death anxiety and existential crises involving loss of identity and meaning. Methods. This qualitative study aimed to explore women’s experiences with cancer, examining their physical, psychological, and existential struggles through verbal and visual expression. Using a constructivist approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with five breast cancer and one ovarian cancer survivors. During the interviews, participants were invited to create artworks that served as a narrative tool, helping to elicit deeper personal meanings. The interviews were then transcribed and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis to generate codes and themes. Results. The analysis revealed key themes: (1) dealing with physical and psychological difficulties, (2) receiving social support, and (3) achieving transformation. Women reported physical damage, such as burnt skin and organs, while struggling with psychological issues such as anxiety and depression, and existential despair. Art was an articulation tool for complex emotions through symbolic language, such as natural objects and geometrical shapes. At the end of their treatments, women recalled letting go of anger, appreciating life’s simplicity, and discovering new meaning that relates to themes of posttraumatic growth. Conclusions. These findings support the integration of art and existential approaches into psycho-oncological care, providing new pathways for psychological and existential healing among survivors.