Psychological care for cancer patients and their families

There has been an increasing literature over the last decade indicating that people with cancer suffer significant psychological morbidity and that for a substantial minority this may be unremitting. Much of this morbidity is treatable through formal psychological techniques, or can be significantly pre-empted where good psychological support systems are in place. This paper describes some of the psychological sequelae, the themes and problems which tend to underlie the observed distress, and introduces some methods which can be used to help patients and their families. The need-for good communication skills is highlighted. Further development of psychological services for people being treated for cancer is indicated in order to provide more comprehensive cancer care and to satisfy patients' demands for a more caring approach to treatment.