Meeting the Mental Health Needs of Patients with Cancer
Cancer affects millions of people every year. The effects are not just physical, but emotional and mental, as well.
Although cancer incidence and mortality are declining overall in the United States, some groups are at a greater risk of developing or dying from the disease. This includes people who have low incomes and low health literacy or live in rural areas. National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month is a special time to talk about these issues and work toward health equity in mental health care.
July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental disorders do not discriminate, and individuals from minority groups are less likely to receive treatment. Learn about ways to get help for yourself and your loved ones. https://t.co/BKft6YnIqX #NMMHM pic.twitter.com/4oI8hT5KR4
— National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (@NIMHgov) July 1, 2024
Patients from minority communities often face unique problems that make their cancer treatment even harder. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, many people face problems such as not having health insurance, less access to treatment and stigmas around mental health. These issues can make it hard for people to get necessary mental health support.
Dealing with cancer and these challenges can make patients feel alone, scared and misunderstood by both their community and health care providers. Limited finances can also make it hard to get quality care and support services. Past and present injustices can result in distrust for the health care system, which can make patients hesitant to fully follow their treatment plans.
It’s important to break down the stigma around mental health. By making it normal to talk about how cancer affects emotions, oncology social workers help patients, families and caregivers understand their feelings and get the right support. This can lead to better mental health and a better quality of life during and after cancer treatment.
Handling these many challenges needs a well-developed plan. Oncology social workers at Moffitt Cancer Center provide support, close gaps in care and create a place where patients feel heard, understood and supported. They offer counseling that respects different cultures, help patients find the resources they need and advocate for them. They also connect patients with support groups, educational workshops and language services to make sure medical information is given in their preferred language.
Understanding and meeting the mental health needs of cancer patients from various backgrounds is a key step toward greater equity in health care. By working to remove the barriers, the health care system can provide better care for everyone battling cancer. Oncology social workers play a vital role in addressing the mental health needs of patients and making these discussions normal. Increasing access to mental health treatment and raising public awareness in all communities are essential to improve the well-being and strength of individuals facing cancer.
Written by Viviana Bermudez, MSW, LCSW, and Brodrick Benjamin, LCSW, OSW-C
