Playful activities as an emotional support strategy for oncology patients

an experience report

Abstract

Introduction: The diagnosis and treatment of cancer can trigger adverse reactions in patients, such as helplessness, anxiety, depression, and isolation, which can worsen the clinical picture and hinder treatment adherence. In this context, art in therapy emerges as an effective approach, allowing patients to connect with their creative expression, facilitating emotional well-being, and strengthening their control over the healing process. Objective: To report the experience of health students in an extension project that provides art therapy practice among oncology patients. Experience Report: The activities took place during the first semester of 2025 in a hospital complex in Belo Horizonte, offering art therapy for oncology patients in the waiting room and chemotherapy salon through weekly visits. The activities included coloring with colored pencils and crayons, reasoning and attention games such as word searches, sculpting with modeling clay, and music therapy. The study design was qualitative, with data collection through observations and semi-structured interviews with participants. Inclusion criteria included patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment with informed consent. Final Considerations: The project proved to be a significant enhancer of well-being in the hospital environment. The use of therapeutic activities created a welcoming atmosphere, promoting playful distraction and emotional relief, reducing anxiety and stress for patients and their companions. The observed results highlight the importance of therapeutic approaches in outpatient settings as a means of promoting psychosocial health.