Cancer patients should seek help for mental health
04 February 2002
People with cancer and other serious illnesses have a high incidence of mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, according to Dr Julie Thompson, Chair of the Australian Divisions of General Practice.
'On World Cancer Day 2002 it is important that we acknowledge that people with serious and life threatening diseases also have a high incidence of mental health problems', Dr Thompson said.
'Unfortunately, there is a tendency to dismiss these serious mental illnesses as an unavoidable response to the disease', she added.
'That means that these problems are often overlooked and remain untreated, even when they result in a significant loss of function and quality of life for patients.'
'Older people with terminal illnesses are particularly vulnerable to the effects of an undiagnosed mental illness. Research shows that clinical depression is a source of considerable suffering for older people who have life-threatening illnesses, however, this condition often remains undiagnosed.'
'This is unfortunate as mental health problems can be successfully treated in many cases.'
'There are a range of therapies that can be used to treat depression, anxiety and mental health problems in patients with serious illnesses. These include non-drug treatments such as counselling and psychotherapy.'
Treatments for mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, are available and have a high rate of success in people who have life-threatening illnesses.
'I would encourage anyone concerned about their own mental health, or that of a friend or family member, to seek advice from their GP on their options for treatment,' advised Dr Thompson.
Last Reviewed: 06 February 2002
