The Case for Low-intensity Psychological
Interventions in Cancer Care

By Stephen May 

Nurses, doctors and allied health professionals working in cancer know that understanding the psychological needs of patients is crucial for providing best-practice holistic care. But knowing what is needed and being able to offer it in daily clinical practice are two very different things.

So, how can we better integrate psychological care into cancer treatment on a limited budget?

Low-intensity psychological interventions are a great start. They are the essential first component of comprehensive cancer care. They are evidence-based and provide psychological support to cancer patients without requiring extensive resources. The World Health Organisation champions their use to help fill the gaps that remain in the accessibility and delivery of psychological support for cancer patients. These gaps stem from limited availability of trained professionals, limited access in rural or resource-restricted settings, lack of seamless integration of psychological care into broader oncology treatment, and cultural and societal stigma around seeking help for mental health issues.

Low-intensity psychological interventions are cost-effective and sustainable additions to cancer care. They support cancer patients, improve patient adherence to treatment and reduce the burden on clinical staff by addressing distress proactively. They are highly accessible and can be delivered by non-specialist staff using self-help materials and brief face-to-face sessions.

The effectiveness of low-intensity psychological interventions in cancer care is supported by extensive research. Studies have shown that these interventions can lead to significant improvements in patients' mental health, including reductions in anxiety, depression, and distress. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and related mindfulness approaches are most commonly used.

The Health Professionals Guide to Delivering Psychological Care for Adults with Cancer is an Australian-developed low-intensity psychological intervention targeting staff in nursing and medical treatment. It supports health professionals with practical guidance and resources to increase their confidence in recognising and responding to their patient's mental health concerns. All its resources allow ease of readability and convey support and practical self-help using cognitive behavioural principles.

The Guide provides direction on brief face-to-face sessions that can be integrated into routine medical appointments, making it easier for patients to receive support without the need for additional visits. During these sessions, healthcare providers can offer emotional support, teach coping strategies, and address any immediate psychological concerns. The brief nature of these interactions ensures that they are manageable for both patients and providers while still giving meaningful support. The Guide also provides information on the unique aspects of the emotional impact of cancer, guidance about the key elements of a supportive patient alliance, the importance of distress screening and how best to use it, and key psychological issues facing patients.

Using The Health Professionals Guide to Delivering Psychological Care for Adults with Cancer demonstrates a commitment to comprehensive, patient-centred care by offering accessible, flexible support that meets diverse patient needs.