Addressing Mental Health: Five Ways PanCAN Can Help

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) Patient Services Manager of Research and Education Communications Nicolas Clifford, MS, has two messages for patients with pancreatic cancer and caregivers who may be struggling with their mental health.

One: You are not alone. And two: There are many people out there ready to help and support you. This care may come in different forms for different people – it could mean joining a support group, connecting with a fellow survivor or caregiver, talking with a member of the clergy or finding a mental health counselor.

Here are five ways PanCAN can help connect patients and caregivers with mental health support:

1. Cancer Support Groups

PanCAN Patient Services Case Managers can help find a cancer support group that meets in-person or online. Pancreatic cancer-specific support groups provide an opportunity for patients to discuss issues that are unique to this disease and to learn how others have managed specific symptoms or emotional concerns.

2. PanCAN’s Survivor and Caregiver Network

Sometimes it helps to talk with a person who has been through a similar situation. PanCAN’s Survivor and Caregiver Network is made up of volunteers throughout the country who are available to communicate one-on-one with those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, their loved ones or anyone looking to connect with someone who has experienced pancreatic cancer. These relationships can serve as a source of inspiration and hope, as well as a way to share practical information.

3. Mental Health Professionals

PanCAN Patient Services provides pancreatic cancer patients and caregivers with resources that can help them connect with a counselor or mental health professional. These health professionals can be a critical member of a person’s care team – just like a dietitian or oncologist. PanCAN often refers patients to cancercare.org, a collaborative of social workers who offer virtual counseling tailored to the needs of those facing a cancer diagnosis.

4. Supportive Care

Supportive care – sometimes referred to as palliative care – is often mistakenly thought of as only an option for end of life. That’s not the case: Supportive care is focused on comfort, quality of life and the patient’s total well-being at all stages of the cancer journey. It includes treating the physical, emotional, social, spiritual and practical concerns of a patient and is often helpful for family and caregivers as well. Contact PanCAN Patient Services to learn more and to find options in your area.

5. Stories of Hope

PanCAN’s vibrant community offers many opportunities to find connection through sharing stories. Reading PanCAN’s Stories of Hope -- featuring survivors, caregivers, volunteers, researchers and others – and following PanCAN on social media can be a source of hope and inspiration.

To learn more about how PanCAN can help connect patients and caregivers with mental health support, check out the full article at pancan.org.