Cancer, a diagnosis that profoundly impacts the life of the person who receives it, not only requires specialized medical care but also a comprehensive approach that considers the patient's emotional and psychological well-being. In this context, the psycho-oncology emerges as an essential discipline, especially in the field of palliative care. This article will explore the profile and functions of the psychologist in palliative care, highlighting their crucial role in improving quality of life and coping with the illness.
What Is Psycho-oncology and Why Is It Crucial in Palliative Care?
Psycho-oncology is defined as the branch of psychology dedicated to the study and intervention of the psychological, social, and behavioral aspects related to cancer. Its main objective is to provide support to the patient and their family throughout the disease process, from diagnosis to treatment and, in cases where necessary, during palliative care. In this latter stage, psycho-oncology takes on even greater relevance, as it focuses on relieving suffering, improving quality of life and promoting the patient's dignity in the face of the end of life.
Palliative care, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients and families facing problems associated with life-threatening illnesses, through the prevention and relief of suffering by means of the early identification and impeccable assessment and treatment of pain and other problems, physical, psychosocial and spiritual.
The Profile of the Psychologist Specializing in Oncological Palliative Care
The psychologist in oncological palliative care must have solid training in clinical psychology and psycho-oncology, as well as a deep understanding of the medical, social and ethical aspects related to advanced cancer. Beyond technical knowledge, it is essential that they possess exceptional communication skills, empathy, patience and the ability to establish a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship with the patient and their family. Other key characteristics include:
- Sensitivity and respect: Ability to understand and respect the patient's beliefs, values and preferences.
- Active listening skills: Paying genuine attention to the patient's needs and concerns.
- Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust interventions to the individual needs of each patient.
- Resilience: Ability to cope with the emotional stress associated with working with terminally ill patients.
Key Functions of the Psychologist in Palliative Care
The psychologist in palliative care performs a wide range of functions, which include:
Psychological Assessment of the Oncology Patient
They carry out a comprehensive assessment of the patient's emotional and psychological state, identifying possible anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress or complicated grief. They use standardized assessment tools and clinical interviews to gain a deep understanding of the patient's needs.
Personalized Psychotherapeutic Intervention
They design and implement individualized psychotherapeutic interventions, tailored to the needs and preferences of each patient. They use techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), existential therapy and supportive therapy to help the patient cope with suffering, manage emotional pain and find meaning in their experience.
Emotional Support and Accompaniment for the Patient and Their Family
They provide emotional support and accompaniment to both the patient and their family, offering a safe space to express their feelings, fears and concerns. They help the family understand the disease process and develop healthy coping strategies. They facilitate communication between the patient, the family and the medical team.
Management of Psychological Pain and Other Emotional Symptoms
They use relaxation techniques, mindfulness and other strategies to help the patient manage psychological pain, anxiety, depression and other emotional symptoms. They collaborate with the medical team to optimize the control of physical pain and other symptoms.
Crisis Intervention and Grief
They intervene in crisis situations, such as the sudden worsening of the patient's health status or the approach of death. They offer support and accompaniment during the grieving process, both to the patient and their family.
Advising and Training the Multidisciplinary Team
They provide counseling and training to the multidisciplinary palliative care team, helping health professionals understand the emotional and psychological needs of patients and their families. They promote the integration of psychological care into the overall care plan.
Benefits of Psycho-oncology in Palliative Care: Improving Quality of Life
The integration of psycho-oncology into palliative care offers numerous benefits, both for the patient and their family:
- Improves quality of life: Relieves emotional and psychological suffering, allowing the patient to enjoy a better quality of life during the time they have left.
- Reduces anxiety and depression: Helps control symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving mood and overall well-being.
- Strengthens coping: Provides tools and strategies to cope with illness, pain and uncertainty.
- Promotes communication: Facilitates communication between the patient, the family and the medical team, improving decision-making and disease management.
- Supports grieving: Offers support and accompaniment during the grieving process, helping the family overcome the loss of a loved one.
