Mental Health

A Multidisciplinary Team Approach to Anxiety Management Before Cancer Surgery

Mu Lin
Preoperative anxiety before cancer surgery may adversely affect patient outcomes. A research study attempted to alleviate anxiety symptoms by utilizing a multidisciplinary team approach that involves oncology nurse navigator, behavioral health nurse, social worker, dietitian, and surgeon.

Psychosocial Support: The Social Worker's Role

Steve Pitman, JD
The social worker is critical in providing psychosocial care to patients with cancer, and Steve Pittman feels they should leverage their training to guide patients in a positive direction to address their mental health.

Treating Patients with Mental Illness

Steve Pitman, JD
Steve Pittman believes a team approach is needed to effectively treat mental illness and encourages oncology navigators to engage the patient's loved ones.

Psychosocial Support: The Navigator's Role

Steve Pitman, JD
Steve Pittman encourages oncology navigators to lead the conversation around psychosocial support for patients with mental illness.

Barriers to Seeking Psychosocial Support

Steve Pitman, JD
Steve Pittman attributes blame and shame as major barriers that prevent patients with mental health issues from seeking psychosocial support.

Working with Patients with Mental Illness

Steve Pitman, JD
Steve Pittman outlines some of the challenges in working with patients with mental illness, citing the importance of opening lines of communication and eliminating blame.