• DIAGNOSIS – A cancer diagnosis often shocks patients , and they may not fully grasp the profound emotional impact during this time . That is why comprehensive , system-wide screening and a robust referral process are crucial .
• DURING TREATMENT – Side effects of common cancer treatments ( chemotherapy , radiation therapy , surgery ) can cause fatigue , pain , nausea , loss of appetite or sexual function and other symptoms . Changes in weight or appearance can trigger body image issues . Addressing these concerns is essential to help promote treatment compliance .
• BETWEEN TREATMENTS – Patients are likely to feel anxiety and uncertainty , struggling to resume their regular lives . The Psycho-Oncology Program offers ongoing support and care during these challenging times .
• AFTER TREATMENT – Life is never quite the same after cancer . Survivors commonly face sleep disorders , post-traumatic stress symptoms , new medical issues and anxiety related to tests and routine checkups .
• SOCIAL CHANGES – Patients often form new peer groups during treatment , though the closeness of these relationships also can include an element of grief . “ Social networks undergo immediate changes when diagnosed with cancer ,” Huang explained . “ Patients often need to advocate for themselves and educate their friends and family .”
APPROACH TO CARE To meet each patient ’ s unique goals and care needs , Huang ’ s team utilizes a combination of research-based treatments such as acceptance and commitment therapy , cognitive behavioral therapy , dialectical behavioral therapy , meaning-centered therapy , mindfulness-based stress reduction and more .
The Psycho-Oncology Program works closely with Supportive Care and extends mental health care to the patient ’ s family , including loved ones affected by a cancer diagnosis . Caregivers , who are often silent co-survivors , may also experience distress . Embracing a patient- and family-centered approach , the program offers individual , couple and family counseling at no additional cost and without insurance involvement . Also , telehealth visits are available to help ensure equitable access to care .
CULTURE OF AWARENESS Access to effective mental health care is essential for comprehensive cancer care , but a nationwide crisis in access persists due to a shortage of providers . This crisis has become increasingly critical as the population of cancer survivors continues to grow .
To bridge this gap , UAB Medicine has taken the lead in improving regional access and referrals for mental health services . Huang serves as the principal investigator for the Psychosocial Oncology Training Academy ( POTA ), which offers interactive workshops and virtual training for interprofessional clinicians through continuing education . In close partnership with cancer survivors , POTA has successfully trained more than 400 providers and established the first psycho-oncology provider referral network in the Birmingham area . The goal is to cultivate a culture of awareness and improve access and quality of psychosocial cancer care .
“ It is normal to feel stressed and overwhelmed at various points in your cancer journey ,” Huang said . “ At the O ’ Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center , you are not alone during those times . Our compassionate team is always just a call away .”
Patients with cancer and their loved ones can contact the UAB Supportive Care Psycho-Oncology Program by talking with their oncology providers or calling 205-801-8624 . ❚■
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