What is the role of psychological support for children with cancer and their families?

Psychological support plays a vital role in helping children with cancer and their families cope with the physical and emotional challenges of the disease. This support contributes to reducing fear and anxiety, improving quality of life, and enhancing the child's ability to cope with treatment and side effects, which positively reflects on the overall recovery path [1].

The Importance of Psychological Support for the Child

Children with cancer face unique challenges that require specialized psychological support. Children may experience fear of painful medical procedures, anxiety about being separated from their parents, or even self-blame for the illness, especially in younger age groups [3]. Psychological support helps in:

• Understanding the Illness: Providing simplified, age-appropriate information about cancer and its treatment, using terms like "troublemaking cells" or "good and bad cells," reduces confusion and fear [3].
• Expressing Emotions: Providing a safe space for the child to express their fears, anger, and sadness, helping them process these feelings in a healthy way.
• Coping with Side Effects: Helping the child adapt to the physical and psychological effects of treatment, such as hair loss or fatigue, and promoting their self-image.
• Maintaining Routine: Encouraging normal activities as much as possible, such as play and learning, to reinforce the child's sense of continuity and normalcy.

Support for Families and Caregivers

The impact of cancer is not limited to the sick child; it extends to all family members, especially parents. Parents face tremendous pressure related to the diagnosis, treatment decisions, financial burdens, and changes in family dynamics. Psychological support for the family includes:

• Education: Providing parents with accurate information about their child's illness and treatment options, enabling them to make informed decisions [1].
• Support Groups: Connecting with other families experiencing similar journeys can provide a sense of solidarity and reduce isolation.
• Individual Support: Offering psychological counseling to parents to help them cope with stress, grief, and anxiety, and to maintain their mental health so they can support their child.
• Sibling Support: Siblings often feel neglected, jealous, or scared, so it is important to include them in the support process and provide them with guidance.

How to Communicate with the Child About Cancer

Communication should be honest and age-appropriate. For toddlers (0-2 years), focus on what is happening in the moment and reassure them of your presence. For children (2-7 years), use simple words like "bad cells" and reassure them that they did not cause the illness. For older children (7-12 years), explain that "troublemaking cells" are hindering the body's function, and check what they have heard from other sources. For adolescents (12 years and older), be honest about procedures and side effects, and support them in decision-making [3].

Where to Obtain Psychological Support?

Specialized pediatric cancer treatment centers typically offer multidisciplinary teams that include psychologists and social workers who can provide psychological support to the child and family [2]. These professionals can help with coping with the diagnosis, pain management, dealing with treatment side effects, and planning for the return to normal life after treatment. It is important to utilize these available resources to ensure the child and family receive the comprehensive support needed during this difficult journey. For more information about childhood cancer, you can visit Childhood Cancer: Early Signs, Treatment Methods, and Family Support (Arabic).

Medical references

• Cancer in Children
• Cancer in Children and Adolescents
• A guide to help children understand cancer