PETALING JAYA: Understanding the emotional processes of individuals and providing compassionate care has been identified as vital in supporting both patients and their caregivers, said Dr Juliet Mathew.
The Director of the Clinical Skills and Simulation Centre at IMU University noted that in healthcare, it is crucial to recognise that not everyone experiences illness or grief in the same way, and thus a tailored approach to care is essential.
Dr Mathew emphasised the importance of addressing the unique emotional stages individuals go through, such as denial, shock and mourning.
“Compassion is more than just a word; it’s a deep wish to reduce the suffering of another," she explained, referencing the views of the Dalai Lama.
She said this during the Women’s Institute of Management (WIM) Mental Health Forum 2024 on Saturday (Oct 12) at Wisma WIM. Also present was the Raja Permaisuri of Perak, Tuanku Zara Salim.
According to Dr Mathew, this understanding forms the foundation of patient care, where empathy and effective communication can help guide both patients and their families through challenging times.
In her discussion on medical ethics, Dr Mathew highlighted the core principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence and justice.
She stated that these principles are essential in ensuring patients are respected, particularly concerning their autonomy, which is their right to be informed about their condition and to make decisions based on that knowledge.
Balancing the concerns of family members with the patient’s wishes can be delicate, but ultimately, the patient’s autonomy must take precedence, the senior lecturer added.
Dr Mathew also underscored the need to address patients' spiritual needs.
Drawing from her experience with end-of-life care, she noted that many patients grapple with spiritual questions that need to be recognised and explored to ease their emotional burden.
This holistic approach to care not only provides comfort to patients but also to their families, fostering a sense of peace during difficult moments, she explained.
Dr Mathew highlighted the often-overlooked role of caregivers, many of whom experience tremendous stress and emotional strain.
Research, according to her, shows that 25% of caregivers suffer from clinical depression and anxiety, with female caregivers particularly vulnerable due to having fewer social resources and higher levels of stress.
Dr Mathew called for caregivers to be treated with the same compassion as patients, stressing the importance of providing them with the support and respite they need to maintain their mental and physical well-being.
“Communication plays a pivotal role in both patient and caregiver support,” she said.
Dr Mathew urged healthcare professionals to practise empathetic listening, being present in conversations without rushing to respond.
She added that it is important to avoid clichés and instead offer specific, genuine support, as it can make a meaningful difference.
“Empathy means entering the patient's world without being overwhelmed by it," she stated, encouraging the use of humour and compassion to help patients feel more understood and less isolated.
“By understanding the individuality of each patient and caregiver, healthcare providers can offer more effective, respectful and supportive care, ensuring that no one faces their challenges alone,” she concluded.
