Friday, January 28, 2011
Together, cancer patients can overcome psychosocial issues they face
Having access to the best caregivers, modern technology and the latest treatment program is important for cancer patients.
But an often overlooked part of the continuum of cancer care is helping patients deal with the many psychological and social issues that arise, whether it is depression, sexuality, accepting physical changes or fear of recurrence.
It is important for cancer patients to know they are not alone – in fact 41 percent of Americans will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetimes. Sometimes just talking with others in a group setting can be extremely therapeutic.
That’s why Backus Hospital has started a new free support group, “Diagnosed with Cancer? What You Need to Know,” which is held the second Tuesday of every month from 5-6 p.m. in front lobby conference room 1.
We will tackle a different topic each month, and also include time for questions and answers and interactive activities.
The support group will also be a good setting to face other common issues cancer patients face, including:
• How humor can help heal
• The role of spirituality and faith
• Communicating with your healthcare provider
• Financial pressures
• Handling fatigue.
Being diagnosed with cancer has more than just physical impacts. It can cause a great deal of stress for patients and their loved ones. Talking about these issues in a group setting can be just what the doctor ordered.
Elynor Carey is a social worker in the Backus Hospital Care Management Department. This column should not replace advice or instruction from your personal physician. If you want to comment on this column or others, visit the Healthy Living blog at www.backushospital.org/backus-blogs or e-mail Ms. Carey or any of the Healthy Living columnists at healthyliving@wwbh.org
But an often overlooked part of the continuum of cancer care is helping patients deal with the many psychological and social issues that arise, whether it is depression, sexuality, accepting physical changes or fear of recurrence.
It is important for cancer patients to know they are not alone – in fact 41 percent of Americans will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetimes. Sometimes just talking with others in a group setting can be extremely therapeutic.
That’s why Backus Hospital has started a new free support group, “Diagnosed with Cancer? What You Need to Know,” which is held the second Tuesday of every month from 5-6 p.m. in front lobby conference room 1.
We will tackle a different topic each month, and also include time for questions and answers and interactive activities.
The support group will also be a good setting to face other common issues cancer patients face, including:
• How humor can help heal
• The role of spirituality and faith
• Communicating with your healthcare provider
• Financial pressures
• Handling fatigue.
Being diagnosed with cancer has more than just physical impacts. It can cause a great deal of stress for patients and their loved ones. Talking about these issues in a group setting can be just what the doctor ordered.
Elynor Carey is a social worker in the Backus Hospital Care Management Department. This column should not replace advice or instruction from your personal physician. If you want to comment on this column or others, visit the Healthy Living blog at www.backushospital.org/backus-blogs or e-mail Ms. Carey or any of the Healthy Living columnists at healthyliving@wwbh.org
# posted by ----------------- @ 8:57 AM 
