The psychological dimension of healthcare, specifically in oncology and palliative care, is imperative for addressing the intricate physical, emotional, and existential challenges faced by patients, their families, and healthcare professionals. As the global burden of cancer and life-limiting illnesses increases, understanding and addressing psychological needs is vital for enhancing quality of life and treatment adherence, contributing significantly to overall health outcomes. Research in this area examines the interaction between physical health and emotional resilience, providing strategies that improve coping mechanisms and emotional adjustment during severe illness.

This Research Topic aims to delve into the complexities of psychological challenges in oncology and palliative care, focusing on enriching the quality of life for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. These illnesses are not only medical but profoundly psychological and social experiences, often associated with anxiety, depression, existential crises, and caregiver stress. Recent advancements in health psychology and psycho-oncology introduce promising interventions like mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral therapy, enhancing psychological resilience and coping. However, gaps remain in adapting these techniques to diverse contexts and supporting healthcare professionals in managing burnout and compassion fatigue.

To gather further insights into the psychological dimensions of oncology and palliative care, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

Interventions for managing anxiety, depression, and distress in patients

Enhancing patient-caregiver communication about prognosis and treatment

Strategies to build resilience in patients and caregivers

Developing tools for assessing psychological well-being in these settings

Reducing healthcare professional burnout and moral distress

Cross-cultural perspectives on psychological interventions

Ethical and psychological aspects of end-of-life care decisions

Addressing fear of recurrence and the psychological transition to survivorship

Impact of physical and social identity changes after cancer survival

Submissions may include original research, reviews, case studies, and theoretical contributions, integrating psychology into multidisciplinary care teams and offering new insights for compassionate, patient-centered care.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Innovations in Psychological Care for Oncology and Palliative Settings: A Holistic Approach