Outreach Oncology Social Work Services Any person whose life has been touched by cancer -- either their own or a loved one's - understands the enormous stress it can cause. For many, there is financial stress related to the cost of medical care and also the loss of income when work is interrupted by treatment. Social stressors include the impact that the diagnosis and treatment have on relationships with family and friends. Physical stressors include coping with significant fatigue, the side effects of treatment, and the symptoms of the disease. The emotional and spiritual stress of living with a potentially life-threatening illness can be overwhelming. The oncology social worker helps the patient and family cope with stress related to a cancer diagnosis. Oncology social workers are master's degree level, licensed clinical social workers who specialize in assisting with people touched by cancer. Oncology social work services have long been available to patients receiving care in both inpatient and outpatient settings at Central Maine Medical Center. As part of the Dempsey Center's mission to serve people living in rural and traditionally underserved communities, an outreach oncology social worker serves outlying cancer clinics at Bridgton Hospital and Rumford Community Hospital, and may be involved in the development and facilitation of cancer support groups in other rural Maine communities as well. Services provided by the outreach oncology social worker include: Psychosocial needs assessments to help the person with cancer and his/her family members identify what their potential emotional, spiritual, and practical needs are and plan interventions accordingly. Counseling for patients and family members to promote optimal emotional health and coping. Counseling can address issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, and effects on family and relationships. Support and education for parents of minor children/grandchildren who are supporting children whose parent/grandparent has cancer. This includes connecting with community resources for children, providing information/assistance about arranging for guardianship of a minor child, etc. Teaching patients how to work with the mind/body/spirit connection. For example, teaching stress management/relaxation techniques, guided imagery, meditation, etc. Facilitating various support groups. Providing information about and referral to community resources for assistance with financial concerns, transportation issues, lodging during treatment, community support groups, etc. Information about and referral to cancer-related information and service organizations. For additional information about Outreach Oncology Social Work Services, call The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing at 1-877-336-7287.