Cancer and Mental Health

“Mental health services are incorporated into the treatment plan for most of our patients early on,” said Elizabeth Bonner, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and the Director of Social Work at New York Cancer & Blood Specialists (NYCBS). That focus is being highlighted during May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month.

Mental health plays a significant role in cancer treatment, from diagnosis to survivorship. As a comprehensive cancer center, NYCBS ensures patients and their care teams work together to assess emotional needs and set goals to address them. Patients have access to a wellness team, including social workers and psychologists, that offers therapeutic visits and emotional support because NYCBS understands that a diagnosis like cancer can also affect your mental and emotional health.

“For those already engaged in mental health treatment, we can provide additional support or ensure that they maintain that relationship with their outside therapist or psychiatrist,” Bonner said.

NYCBS patients can receive support services, including transportation, housing, financial assistance, and insurance concerns, and NYCBS hosts a monthly patient support group to care for the mind, body, and spirit.

Discussing one’s feelings can positively change mood and behavior while contributing to better health. Since treatment, side effects, and lifestyle changes can impact mental health, it is important to remember that help is readily available. 

There are many beneficial ways to manage mental health symptoms, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising, making lifestyle changes like avoiding alcohol use, setting realistic goals, and asking for help when you need it. However, if these suggestions do not relieve your symptoms of anxiety or depression, you may need to seek help from your mental health provider.

“Changes to our health in any capacity can create feelings of anxiety, depression, and frustration,” said Bonner. “We also can be impacted by the loss of social roles, social isolation, loneliness, reduced self-worth, and hopelessness.” Whatever the situation or reason, one fact is clear and will be highlighted by the specialists at NYCBS; mental health does not have to be contingent on a cancer diagnosis.