Mental health
Mental health is “a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community” (WHO)
“Mental health is about wellness rather than illness”
Good mental health and wellbeing mean different things to different people and every person has to find their own way to a life that is meaningful and satisfying for them. It is incredibly important to maintain good mental health when coping with a cancer diagnosis. The benefits of good mental health can reach into every facet of our lives – improved relationships, increased self-esteem and ability to cope, improved physical health and life expectancy.
A cancer diagnosis can affect the mental health of patients, families, and caregivers. Common feelings during this life-changing experience include anxiety, distress, and depression. Roles at home, school, and work can be affected. It’s important to recognise these changes and get help when needed.
https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/emotional-mood-changes.html
Solaris Cancer Care has collated a comprehensive Emotional Support Resource list and can be found here.
Many things can contribute to positive mental health and wellbeing and a comprehensive list can be found at https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/F_I/Good-mental-health-and-wellbeing
Contact your nearest centre to make a booking
Mental health services offered
Counselling - Individual
Whether you have been diagnosed yourself, a family member or a friend, a cancer diagnosis can bring difficult and painful feelings. Shock, grief, and fear are just some of the emotions you may deal with. Counselling is available during and after cancer treatment. It can be beneficial for family members and loved ones, too. Talking to a counsellor experienced in cancer issues can ease the sense of isolation you may feel and help you find ways to face the challenges ahead.
Our counsellors are highly experienced and skilled in helping people with cancer and their families deal with the many emotional issues that cancer can cause. Talking to an experienced, empathetic professional can provide some relief when everyday life and relationships feel like they’ve been turned upside down. Having the support of a counsellor can really help you and your family manage and navigate the emotions and fears that you may be experiencing. Counselling can help provide coping strategies to support you and your family during and after your treatment and deal with any mental health issues which may arise.
Our counsellors are Master degree holders from universities with professional accreditations. We value empowerment and inclusivity as part of the Solaris Cancer Care mission. As such, we aim to walk alongside you, to support and explore what your personal experience of cancer brings, its emotional and psychological impacts – and assist you in getting in touch with yourself and your inner resources towards living well.
Home and hospital visits
If your health prevents you from joining us, our counsellors can visit you at home or in hospital within a 10km radius of our Cottesloe centre.Phone support
If you find yourself unable to attend counselling at your local Solaris Cancer Care centre, feel free to contact reception on 9384 3544 and make an appointment to have a counsellor phone you back. Skype/ Zoom counselling is also available by appointmentDetails
- 50 minute sessions once a week.
- Appointments are available at the following centres:
Cottesloe: Monday - Friday, 9.00am – 3.00pm
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital: refer to monthly program
St John of God Subiaco Hospital: refer to monthly program
Bunbury: refer to monthly program
Cost
- Cottesloe: The first session is free. Membership and ten dollars after the first session.
- All other centres are free
Counselling - Group
The types of groups we offer are psychoeducational and informative, as well as supportive and exploratory. The themes we cover range from grief to wellness for patients and carers alike. The strength in support groups lies in the wisdom developed through knowledge gleaned through shared life experiences; each group is different and as a collective brings something unique to each individual. We value community above all else and group inclusivity captures that.
Biopsychosocial support is recognised as a vital part of integrated oncology care, to help reduce the physical, psychological, mental and social impact of cancer on the individual and their family. We offer a spectrum of interventions ranging from weekly support groups to psychoeducational groups designed to address both informal and formal/clinical needs of clients/patients and their family.
Details
- 60 minute session
Wellness Coaching
We take a holistic approach to cancer and that includes your mental and emotional wellbeing too. Coaching is a collaborative approach to building the lifestyle you value most highly.
Working with a skilled counsellor or wellness coach you can create your personalised wellbeing plan, set realistic goals and have someone walk beside you in keeping you on track.
Your counsellor may draw on tools from positive psychology, motivational interviewing and behavioural change. Help yourself to live well with Wellness Coaching.
Details
- Appointments are available at our Cottesloe Centre:
Monday - Friday, 9.00am – 3.00pm
