Mental Health and Cancer – Coping is a Loved One’s Diagnosis

Objectives - Explore the unique needs of loved ones and caregivers of people with cancer Diagnosis - 650,000+ people die of cancer EACH year - When someone is diagnosed, the patient and loved ones grieve - Even if the cancer is “cured” or goes into remission there may be lasting disabilities and/or losses - Loss of security (health anxiety in the patient and SOs) - Loss of function or changes in appearance - Cognitive impairment (“chemo-brain”) impacts attention, working memory, executive function, and processing speed - Unmet needs of caregivers and patients were associated with increased physical symptoms, anxiety, and reduced QoL - Not everyone experiences grief in the same way - Families need to be educated about the grief bill of rights

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