Lisa Ray recently opened up about her journey with cancer, sharing insights about the emotional battles she faced and the importance of self-compassion in healing.
In a heartfelt conversation with actor Chhavi Mittal for his podcast clear statementThe actor-writer highlighted that expressing emotions is not a sign of weakness but a necessary step in processing trauma. “All our emotions are valid and sacred,” she said, noting that the real danger lies in suppressing them. During her cancer treatment, Ray began to prefer crying as a form of release, to find relief by allowing herself to feel deeply and openly.
Reflecting on his diagnosis, Ray admits that his initial reaction was, unexpectedly, a sense of relief. The diagnosis gave her reason to pause, step back and reevaluate her life. “Finally, I can stop; I can get off this train,” he shared, explaining how the severity of his illness forced him to slow down and face his emotions. The pause ultimately helped him embrace vulnerability, reminding him—and others—that true strength Often involves acknowledging and addressing one’s own emotional needs.
Echoing her point, Dr Priyadarshini Dev, Consultant, Cancer and Palliative Care Centre, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, says trauma is any experience that disrupts a person’s ability to cope. Cancer trauma, in particular, can cause profound emotional and psychological distress. Healing, she explains, requires more than physical therapy; It takes time, self-awareness and courage to face difficult emotions. Techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, medical hypnotherapy, and coping strategies are often used to support mental health during and after cancer.
Dr Dev also emphasizes the importance of crying as an emotional outlet to help release sadness, anger, fear and frustration. “Crying lowers stress hormones and provides a sense of relief, promoting a powerful form of healing that often goes unrecognized.” She says, stressing that self-care is not fun but necessary; Patients must learn to set boundaries, nurture their bodies, and engage in activities that bring them peace.
Establishing a safe support circle is another cornerstone of the healing process. Surrounding yourself with people who offer recognition, respect boundaries, and provide encouragement creates an important network that promotes emotional safety. For some, this may mean distancing themselves from people who drain their energy or fail to understand their healing journey. “Letting people go is not about resentment but about protecting your peace,” notes Dr Dev.
Dr. Dev does not follow the universal path of recovery from trauma such as cancer. The process requires a mindset that embraces setbacks as part of growth, focusing on self-compassion and resilience. Empowering yourself through self-care, supportive relationships, and healthy boundaries promotes emotional growth. Cancer survivors can develop deep emotional intelligence by allowing themselves to cry and feel vulnerable and transform their experiences into a foundation for a hopeful future.
This mindset also reinforces healthy boundaries, helping individuals avoid situations that may cause further trauma. Prioritizing positive, supportive relationships reduces isolation and helps people understand, allowing them to trust and connect with others.
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