The psychosocial aspects of malignancy

This article has described many of the psychosocial issues associated with malignancy. Issues related to delivering the diagnosis of cancer, such as telling the truth, including the family, and initiating a "shared meaning" process, were considered. Patient reactions related to cancer such as grief, depression, and needs for control were described. Family reactions to the cancer patient, including anticipatory grief and weariness, were noted. The need for psychosocial support for the family of the cancer patient was discussed. Finally, the need for caregivers to pay attention to their own emotional needs was described.