13 - Emotional Effects of Cancer

On this episode of the Cancer Dietitian Podcast we’re talking about the emotional effects of cancer with Dr. Richard McQuellon, Director of Psychosocial Oncology at Wake Forest Baptist Health Comprehensive Cancer Center's Cancer Patient Support Program. We’ll discuss practical coping mechanisms, when to seek professional help for depression, and the power of community.

We’re also speaking with Julie Pope, a GI Oncology Nurse Navigator at Novant Health Cancer Center about their local cancer support group for cancer survivors, patients and caregivers. Then we’ll hear from ten-year colon cancer survivor Rod Hunter about his experience and how he has navigated his emotions from diagnosis to recovery.

What we discuss:

• Coping with disease and management, relationships and how you think and feel
• The importance of understanding how you work and what gives you hope
• Finding a support community
• Practical coping mechanisms
• When to seek professional help to deal with depression
• The power of both speaking about how you feel and listening to others
• Different types of creative therapy options
• The greatest need for caregivers

Links mentioned:

ACS Coping Checklist for Patients Wake Forest Baptist Cancer Survivorship Clinic Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center Cancer Services, Inc. Cancer Dietitian Colon Cancer Coalition Get Your Rear in Gear 2020 Race Race Facebook Event Page