Mental Health Professional
Mental health professionals provide support and care to individuals who are facing cancer diagnoses, undergoing treatment, or dealing with the emotional and psychological impact of cancer.
Specific roles of a Mental Health Professional:
- Provide emotional support to individuals and their families as they navigate the challenges associated with a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.
- Teach and reinforce effective coping strategies to help individuals manage the emotional distress, anxiety, and depression that can accompany a cancer diagnosis.
- Conduct psycho-social assessments to understand the emotional and social factors that may impact an individual’s ability to cope with cancer and its treatment.
- Facilitate or recommend participation in support groups, individual counselling, or therapy to provide a safe space for expressing emotions and receiving guidance.
Questions to ask a Mental Health Professional:
- What types of therapy or counselling do you offer, and which might be most beneficial for me?
- How can we address any anxiety or fear I have about my cancer, its treatment and potential recurrence?
- Can you provide guidance on how to communicate with my healthcare team about my emotional needs?
- What resources or support groups are available for cancer patients, and how can I access them at diagnosis, during therapy and during recovery from my therapy?
- How can I navigate conversations about cancer with my loved ones, and do you offer family or couples counselling?
- Are there specific exercises or activities that can support my mental health during treatment?
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