Supportive Care
Social Work & Emotional Support
A cancer diagnosis affects every part of life. Medical social workers, counselors, and community organizations help patients and families cope, plan, and find resources.
Support
Coping Strategies
Healthy coping strategies lead to longer-lasting positive outcomes. What works varies from person to person; it is important to build a toolkit that works for you.
Allowing yourself to feel and name your emotions increases resilience. "I feel..." statements are a powerful tool. Journaling, talking with a trusted person, or working with a counselor are all effective outlets.
Loved ones, cancer support groups, and counselors reduce stress and increase wellbeing. Peer support from others who have faced a similar diagnosis can be especially powerful.
Communicating your needs and saying "no" to non-essential demands preserves energy for what matters most. You do not have to respond to every visitor, phone call, or well-meaning inquiry.
Mindfulness meditation and deep breathing slow the heart rate and reduce stress. Apps such as Calm or Headspace provide guided sessions designed for people managing health challenges.
Spiritual practice and faith communities can provide meaning and comfort during difficult life events. Many patients find renewed connection to their beliefs helpful; there is no right or wrong way to find meaning.
Planning
Advance Care Planning
An advance directive is a legal document that explains what kind of medical care you want if you are ever too sick to speak for yourself. It helps your doctors and family know what to do.
Ask your social worker or care team to help you complete advance directives. It is an act of care for yourself and your loved ones.
For Families
Caregiver Resources
Caring for a loved one with pancreatic cancer can be demanding emotionally and physically. You are not alone; significant support is available.
PanCAN
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network offers personalized support, educational materials, and caregiver support groups. Helpline: 877-272-6226 | pancan.org
CancerCare
Free counseling, online and telephone support groups, and educational workshops for patients and caregivers. cancercare.org
American Cancer Society
24/7 support helpline, information on treatment options, and caregiver guides. Helpline: 800-227-2345 | cancer.org
Lustgarten Foundation
Focused on pancreatic cancer research and patient resources. lustgarten.org
CFAC: Financial Assistance
Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition helps with treatment costs, lodging, and transportation. cancerfac.org
National Cancer Institute
Educational materials and coping strategies for caregivers. cancer.gov
We Are Here to Help
Our team includes social workers, counselors, and patient navigators ready to support you and your family from the moment of diagnosis.
Support
What Medical Social Workers Do
Medical social workers are licensed professionals who bridge the gap between your healthcare and everyday life.
Medical social workers assess the emotional and social needs of patients and families, collaborate with the healthcare team on treatment plans, and provide counseling and resources to help cope with the effects of illness. They also help patients access community services such as financial assistance, transportation, lodging, and emotional support.
Ask your care team to connect you with a social worker early in your diagnosis, not only when problems arise. Early engagement leads to better preparation and smoother navigation through treatment.