The Supportive Counseling to Enhance Self-Care and Psychological Adaptation in a Patient with Advanced Breast Cancer: A Case Report

Abstract

Advanced breast cancer is frequently accompanied by complex physical limitations and psychological distress that challenge patients’ ability to adapt and engage in self-care. These physical challenges frequently interact with emotional responses such as anxiety, uncertainty, and reduced confidence in managing daily life. Supportive counseling plays an important role in facilitating psychological adaptation and strengthening patients’ capacity to participate in self-care despite these challenges actively. This case report aims to describe the application of supportive counseling to enhance self-care engagement and psychological adaptation in a patient with advanced breast cancer and bone metastasis. The case involved an adult female patient experiencing chronic pain, functional dependence, self-care limitations, and heightened anxiety related to her illness. Supportive counseling was delivered using a structured, patient-centered approach that emphasized emotional support, coping facilitation, self-care encouragement, and family involvement. Counseling sessions were integrated into daily clinical care and focused on empowering the patient to recognize remaining capabilities and adapt to physical limitations. The results demonstrated reduced anxiety, improved emotional adjustment, increased participation in self-care activities, and greater confidence in managing daily needs with minimal assistance. These findings highlight the importance of supportive counseling as a psychosocial approach to promote psychological adaptation and self-care in patients with advanced breast cancer, contributing to more holistic and patient-centered oncological care.