Mental Health and Paediatric Cancer Patients

The field of paediatric psycho-oncology is dedicated to understanding and addressing the emotional and behavioural challenges faced by children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer. A comprehensive review of existing literature and clinical practices sheds light on the multifaceted nature of this endeavour and offers valuable insights into effective approaches for supporting patients and their families.

Children undergoing cancer treatment often encounter a myriad of psychological issues, ranging from anxiety and depression to neurocognitive deficits, particularly in cases involving brain tumours. Recognizing the prevalence of these challenges, routine psychological screening and assessment are recommended to identify patients and families in need of support from the onset of diagnosis. This proactive approach allows for timely intervention and the provision of appropriate resources to mitigate distress and optimize overall well-being.

In addressing these psychological concerns, a range of treatment modalities is employed, including individual psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy, pharmacotherapy, and neuropsychological monitoring. Tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each patient and family unit is essential for fostering resilience and facilitating coping mechanisms. Moreover, the significance of family support cannot be overstated, with dedicated sessions, sibling support, and family therapy serving as crucial components of comprehensive care.

For children nearing the end of life, compassionate palliative care aimed at addressing physical, psychological, and spiritual needs is paramount. Equally important is the provision of bereavement support for families coping with the loss of a child, ensuring that they receive the necessary assistance and guidance during this challenging period.

An integrated approach, characterized by close collaboration between mental health professionals and the medical team, is advocated for the optimal delivery of psychosocial services. However, in settings where mental health resources may be limited, training paediatric staff in basic emotional support strategies can serve as a valuable interim measure.

While current practices are informed by clinical consensus and existing evidence, there remains a pressing need for further research to establish evidence-based interventions in paediatric psycho-oncology. Continued efforts to advance our understanding of the psychological aspects of childhood cancer and refine therapeutic approaches will ultimately contribute to improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life for paediatric oncology patients and their families.

References

https://iacapap.org/_Resources/Persistent/bd5ed920e764a942a252495e744072214f773c69/I.6-PSYCHOONCOLOGY-2019.01.pdf
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0882596318305918
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5447114/pdf/ymj-58-816.pdf
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/coping/mental-health-cancer/during-and-after-cancer-treatment