2024 Mental Health Matters: The Importance of Mental Health After a Cancer Diagnosis
September 17, 2024
Mental Health Matters: The Importance of Mental Health After a Cancer Diagnosis
Session Description:
This session will discuss mental health and how it may be impacted after a cancer diagnosis for both the patient and caregiver(s). The presenters will define mental health and discuss how it is a critical component of oncology care. Strategies for patients and caregivers will be reviewed and specific support resources will be highlighted. This session is ideal for social workers and health care professionals who are new to the field of oncology care and a refresher for professionals serving this population.
Speakers:
Rachel Saks, MSS, LSW, OSW-C, Cancer Support Community
Rachel Saks serves as the Senior Director of Education and Programs at Cancer Support Community (CSC). In this role, Rachel collaborates with her teams to create and implement education, programming, and outreach activities for patients, families, and caregivers affected by cancer. Prior to CSC, Rachel served as the Director of Cancer Services at Doylestown Hospital in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Rachel led a team of oncology professionals to provide comprehensive treatment and navigation to cancer patients and their families. She has spent her career in healthcare providing support and advocacy to patients while always maintaining a focus on improving access to care.
Marcy Sansbury, MS, Cancer Support Community
Marcy Sansbury is a Project Manager in the Education department at Cancer Support Community (CSC). Since beginning this role, Marcy has worked on various educational resources within CSC’s Frankly Speaking About Cancer (FSAC) educational series. Marcy led a new FSAC initiative on the intersection of Mental Health and Cancer and served as the project lead. Prior to CSC, Marcy worked as a Clinical Research Assistant and Program Manager at The Ohio State Comprehensive Cancer Center. Marcy received a master’s degree in Kinesiology from The Ohio State University and is a Certified Exercise Physiologist.
Learning Objectives:
After completing this activity, participants will be able to:
- Recognize the stigma that exists surrounding mental health care.
- Discuss the importance of mental health during cancer survivorship and learn how to guide the patient back to their new normal.
- Explain the importance of caregiver mental health and how to make sure they receive the support they need.
CE credits: 1.0, which will be available for $25.
Click here to view Continuing Education information.
Category: Clinical/General
Educational Level: Beginner