The five-year survivorship rate for all cancers has improved over time, leaving more cancer survivors living longer and in need of supportive services to ensure an increase in their mental and physical health-related quality of life. Yet, inequity in access to these services still depends on where you live.
I have been working with individuals in the healthcare arena for 34 years now and, like many of you, I’ve been through and witnessed a lot of changes. I think it is reasonable to say that my formal social work training did not prepare me for most of it. And, how could it?
Coming to the end of treatment for cancer can bring a multitude of feelings including relief and accomplishment. We also know that this period can bring fear, anxiety, and isolation. Many of the clients we work with are so focused on the next appointment, treatment, and side effect that they have little to no time …
Cancer and its aftereffects on young adult survivors can significantly impact their lifelong care during survivorship. It is imperative to understand the effects of a cancer diagnosis on young adults and its aftermath.
For young adults (YAs) navigating life after a cancer diagnosis, survivorship is an ongoing journey that extends far beyond treatment. Nearly 84,000 YAs are diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States (Miller et al.,2020). The increasing number of young adult survivors can be attributed to an increase in overall incidence of cancer in …
Support for Young Adult Survivors: Navigating the Journey Beyond Cancer Read More »
Writing has been recognized to have a myriad of psychological benefits. It has been found to help individuals express inhibited emotions, create a new narrative about a traumatic event, and find meaning in a stressful experience. (Baikie & Wilhelm, 2005; Pennebaker & Beall, 1986). Importantly, writing has also been identified as an accessible therapeutic tool …
Therapeutic Benefits of Writing for Cancer Survivors Read More »