The Significance of Pediatric Psycho-Oncology

To understand the importance of pediatric psycho-oncology, we can reference insights from Ms. Hourieh Zoghi, a senior psychologist at the MAHAK Supportive Services Department.

Childhood cancer occurrence causes intense emotional distress, anxiety, and distraught to the family. This experience is incredibly challenging and processing it is not easy for both children and parents.

Conversely, parents often define their identities confined to their children, leading them to invest substantial emotional, physical, and financial resources in their well-being. The situation gets more complicated when they face a problem like cancer; during which parents experience intense rational and irrational fears related to the term “cancer.”

In such circumstances, families require the guidance of a qualified and proficient specialist. This professional should provide clear and accurate information about their condition and helps them through alleviating their confusion and emotional turmoil.

Supportive services specialists, including psychologists and social workers, play a crucial role in assisting families to understand their complex circumstances, ultimately aiding in their acceptance and adaptation to the current reality.

MAHAK supportive services department has always strived to work in line with the latest international trends in mental health care. The following initiatives exemplify this commitment:

1. In the past year, MAHAK psychology unit launched a digital book trolley, enabling children undergoing treatment at 41 medical centers across the country to access a virtual library.
2. A Letter of Intent (LOI) was signed between MAHAK and Shahid Beheshti University, allowing post-graduate students in the field of psychology to intern at MAHAK.
3. Over the last year and in line with the multidisciplinary approach, MAHAK psychology unit conducted “Breaking Bad News” workshops not only in Tehran but also in several other cities throughout the country.
4. Moreover, psycho-oncology workshops were being set up during the fourth “Biennial International Pediatric Oncology ”congress at MAHAK in May 2024.
5. MAHAK has also collaborated with volunteer psychological experts to provide counseling via phone.
6. MAHAK promoted “The Captain,” a movie about childhood cancer, hosting the director’s movie and producer at the premiere.

On the occasion of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, MAHAK is proud to share a selection of accomplishments and initiatives of its supportive services department.  We will be delighted to hear yours.

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