Mind-Body Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer
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Supportive Therapies for Pancreatic Cancer Patients: Mind-Body Medicine
Many pancreatic cancer patients experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological stresses which can impact their immune system, digestion, sleep, and concentration. The Mind-Body Medicine Program at CTCA provides emotional and psychological support to help you cope throughout your pancreatic cancer journey.
Mind-body medicine (also called “psychoneuroimmunology” or PNI) explores the influence of your mind and emotions on your body and immune system, and vice versa. Mind-body therapies aim to use the power of thoughts and emotions to positively influence physical health.
During your initial visit to CTCA, you will have the option to meet with a mind-body therapist. Your mind-body therapist will provide an assessment and then work with you to integrate mind-body therapies into your overall pancreatic cancer treatment plan.
As you receive conventional pancreatic cancer treatments, your mind-body therapist works with the rest of your care team to recommend specific mind-body tools and techniques based on your individual needs. The goal is to help you deal with the physical and emotional issues that may arise during your care.
Your mind-body therapist can provide individual, group or family counseling sessions. He or she can also teach you how to apply techniques like guided imagery, relaxation, stress management, laughter therapy, and energy therapies. These techniques can become important tools to your peace of mind and well being, and may help to reduce pain, nausea, sleep problems, and other side effects.
Furthermore, many pancreatic cancer patients are concerned about the well being of their loved ones. CTCA recognizes that caregivers play an important role in the healing process. The mind-body team offers counseling and mind-body therapies to your caregivers and other loved ones as well.
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