From May this year, people in Latvia who have been diagnosed with cancer can take part in an evidence-based, internationally recognised programme “Mind Over Matter” (MOM). It is designed to help people emotionally adjust and cope with the psychological difficulties of an oncology diagnosis.
The Mind Over Matter programme consists of five group sessions. In them, patients and their relatives can develop practical skills in stress management, emotion regulation and psychological resilience. Under the guidance of experts, you can learn scientifically based methods to strengthen your own psychological resilience at all stages of cancer - from diagnosis to treatment, recovery and life after the disease.
We know that the number of oncology diagnoses is increasing rapidly. Scientific research to date shows that cancer is one of the most frightening diagnoses, causing deep emotional and existential distress for both the patient and their loved ones. In addition to the physical suffering, the disease has a significant impact on a person's psycho-emotional state, social relationships and spiritual world.
Studies have shown that patients who also take care of their emotional needs during treatment have a better quality of life. For this reason, cancer care should be holistic, with psycho-emotional support in addition to medical treatment. This is what the initiative “Better life for cancer patients” has also been highlighted by the European Commission.
MOM has a psychoeducational programme specifically for cancer patients, developed by “Inova Peterson Life with Cancer™” USA. The programme offers self-help skills that can greatly complement traditional treatment methods.
The implementation of MOM in Latvia is carried out by the social enterprise IDARTO, whose specialists were awarded the right to teach the programme in Latvian in February this year. Three patient groups are planned to be supported this year, and four in 2026, with the number of groups to be increased on demand if necessary. The implementation of the programme in Latvia is co-financed by the European Union, National Development Plan: ESF+ project “Support for Social Entrepreneurship” Nr.4.3.3.3/1/24/I/001.
You can register to participate here.