MODULE 6

TITLE

Confidently Managing Stress and Health-Related Emotions

Proposed by Creative Station, Serbia

Duration 15 min

Topics

Topics covered in this lesson

1. Understanding the Emotional Impact of Cancer

2. Psychological Stages of Coping with Cancer

3. The Role of Healthcare Professionals in Emotional Support

Key terms

Emotional Impact of Cancer, Psychological Stages of Coping, Support Networks, Stress and Anxiety Management Techniques, Role of Healthcare Professionals

Intro

Welcome to Module 6, focused on confidently managing stress and health-related emotions. This module is designed to help cancer patients and their families effectively cope with the emotional challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. We will explore various strategies for stress reduction, relaxation techniques, the importance of support networks, and ways to maintain long-term emotional well-being. You will learn how to recognize and manage negative thoughts, utilize professional support, and build resilience. The goal of this module is to provide you with tools and information that will help you feel empowered and supported during this challenging period.

Resources for educators used: 

Multimedia content, interactive tools, professional guidance, and online platforms to effectively teach emotional resilience, stress management, and support network building for cancer patients and their families.

Methods of educating 

interactive lectures, multimedia presentations, guided exercises, group discussions, role-playing scenarios, self-assessment quizzes, and access to professional consultations and support groups.

RESOURCES

1. Cancer Council NSW. (2021, December 19). Common Reactions | Emotions & Cancer | Cancer Council NSW. https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/cancer-information/when-you-are-first-diagnosed/emotions-and-cancer/dealing-with-the-diagnosis/

2. Taylor, J., Fradgley, E. A., Clinton‐McHarg, T., Hall, A., & Paul, C. L. (2023). Perceived importance of emotional support provided by health care professionals and social networks: Should we broaden our focus for the delivery of supportive care? Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical Oncology, 19(6), 681–689. https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13922

3. Richardson, S. (2023, June 19). 10 Ways to Manage Cancer-Related Stress. Franciscan Health. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/10-ways-to-manage-cancer-related-stress

4. Staff, M. (2024, July 24). Getting Started with Mindfulness. Mindful. https://www.mindful.org/meditation/mindfulness-getting-started/

5. Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress. (2022, August 3). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469

6. Ackerman, C. E., MA. (2024, June 26). CBT Techniques: 25 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Worksheets. PositivePsychology.com. https://positivepsychology.com/cbt-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-techniques-worksheets/

7. Gupta, T., & Schapira, L. (2018). Online communities as sources of peer support for people living with cancer: a commentary. Journal of Oncology Practice, 14(12), 725–730. https://doi.org/10.1200/jop.18.00261

8. Grey, H. (2023, September 29). 7 Ways to Support a Friend, Family Member, or Colleague with Breast Cancer. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/breast-cancer/ways-to-support-friend-family-colleague#1

9. Professional support for your emotional wellbeing – multiple system atrophy trust. (n.d.). Multiple System Atrophy Trust. https://www.msatrust.org.uk/support-for-you/for-people-affected-by-msa/living-with-msa-the-emotional-impact/professional-support/

10. Healthy Wellness Plan – Cancer Care education. (n.d.). https://cancercareeducation.trubox.ca/9-1-healthy-wellness-plan/#9.1.1

11. Cancer Council NSW. (2021, December 19). Common Reactions | Emotions & Cancer | Cancer Council NSW. https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/cancer-information/when-you-are-first-diagnosed/emotions-and-cancer/dealing-with-the-diagnosis/