If you’ve ever been in a cancer hospital, you’ve probably heard it. If you’ve ever visited a cancer patient, you might have even said it: stay positive. Keep a good attitude. Be strong.

Words like these are meant to encourage, to comfort. They’re meant to inspire cancer patients to fight against negative feelings of despair and hopelessness, to provide strength during times of weakness.

Some people adamantly believe that a good attitude can lessen the effects of cancer, that optimism can improve the physical condition of a human being with a physiological illness.

As it turns out, there is no evidence at all to support this.

According to the American Cancer Society, typically empowering phrases such as these are actually capable of causing an opposite effect. Cancer patients who are constantly pressured to see the best in a dark situation might feel incapable of doing so, and for good reason. It’s entirely unrealistic to completely ignore feelings of guilt, fear, or anxiety when faced with a major life change, especially something as serious as cancer.

Misleading beliefs in the power of positivity can be unfairly stressful for cancer patients. “The downside of such beliefs,” wrote the American Cancer Society, “is that when people with cancer don’t do well, they may blame themselves.”

As unfortunate as it is, a positive attitude cannot cure cancer.

Adequate funding and monetary support, however, can provide scientists with the resources they need to find a medicinal cure. In a country where cancer is the second leading cause of death, it is up to each community to take responsibility in fighting these illnesses, especially as cancer diagnoses are growing alarmingly quickly across the globe.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to contribute to a cause for finding a cure. “The best way local students can help would be to a) start a Relay for Life team and do fundraisers and/or b) volunteer with the Relay for Life,” said Angela Turner, an Event Lead for the Relay for Life of Huntsville Metro and former Bob Jones student.

There will be a Relay for Life event in Huntsville this May. Students and members of the local community are strongly encouraged to participate.