People with cancer and their families and friends may experience many emotions including sadness, anxiety, anger, or uncertainty. Some people accept painful emotions as burdens of illness, but people can learn new ways to cope with the complications cancer adds to their lives, to minimize the stress that cancer can cause, and to grow and become stronger and more fulfilled.
The Behavioral Medicine Clinical Service at UPMC Cancer Centers is an integral part of the patient care team. Experienced psychologists, who are knowledgeable about cancer, cancer treatments, and the psychological and social problems that may result, provide a variety of programs and services to help patients and families manage challenges brought on by cancer.
Individualized treatment plans are tailored to best fit with cancer site and stage, type of treatment, gender, age, and coping preferences. Services recommended can vary from short-term consultation on a specific concern to long-term support involving both the patient and the family throughout the course of the illness.
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For more information about any of the services available at UPMC Cancer Centers, please call the UPMC Cancer Centers Information and Referral Service at 412-647-2811 or send us an e-mail via "Ask a Question Online."
