tumor growth (Anderson, 1997; Kiecolt-Glaser et als., 1992). Thus it was observed (Grabmeier, 1995, cited Henderson, 1998) that breast cancer patients who feel high levels of stress (including both acute and chronic stress) concerning their diagnosis and treatment show evidence of a weakened immune system, in particular lower levels of natural killer (NK) cells. Patients benefited from dealing with their feelings at an early stage. It was demonstrated that psychological and emotional support reduced stress, improved immune function, and possibly extended patient survival Anderson (Anderson and Grabmeier, 1997; Anderson, 1997). Rambo (1997) found that breast cancer patients who completed the in-care (hospital) six-week support program had an increase of 25% or more in natural killer cells. A similar study undertaken by Goldman (1989) observed that women who received medical treatment and emotional support lived twice as long as those who received only medical intervention. The effectiveness of emotional support, resulting in increased immune system function, according to Seligman and Buchanan (1996), is attributable to these women learning to dispute their negative thoughts, thus averting depression and learned helplessness. Craig Hassed's work showed the benefits of pro-active intervention in relation to the groups deemed to be at risk of developing cancer or heart disease, by providing autonomy training. The benefits of providing women with emotional support are also significant, as the research shows that a person already diseased with breast cancer (immune system depleted), when provided with emotional support (acknowledgement of the psychological stress), can result in a much improved health outcome. Research findings in relation to HIV+ gay men is of particular interest because of the cyclic nature of the stressors, and the fact that the virus is so specific to the immune system. A study of some 400 American gay men showed tha...
