December 16, 2005

Cancer Center employees receive support during the holidays and beyond

While the holidays are generally seen as a time for joy and happiness, for those who are dealing with an illness and those caring for these patients, the holidays can be stressful and filled with sadness. To deal with this issue, the MGH Cancer Center recently held a program "Coping with the Holidays: Balancing Joy and Sadness When Working in a Health Care Setting" Nov. 18 for its support staff — medical assistants, staff assistants, phlebotomists and patient service coordinators. Led by Michelle Hazelwood, LICSW, an MGH Oncology social worker, the program addressed the challenges and opportunities that come along with working in a health care setting. Hazelwood shared tips for coping and balancing feelings of joy and sadness, explored what patients might be feeling and how support staff can best support patients during this time of year. "You may feel a mixture of emotions around the holidays," said Hazelwood. "It's okay to feel sad, and it's also okay to be grateful that you are healthy."

This program was one of many that the Cancer Center held this year as part of the center's new Support Staff Development Program created by Beth Alterman, administrative director for Clinical Programs in the Cancer Center; Katie Binda, MSW, LICSW, of Social Services; and Barbara Cashavelly, RN, MSN, nurse manager for Clinical Programs in the Cancer Center. The program consists of three components. The first, Support Staff Connections, allows staff to discuss emotional issues involving patient care in a comfortable environment. Support Staff Grand Rounds provides educational opportunities for staff about various issues related to cancer care ranging from death and dying to survivorship and stress management. And Leadership Lunches give the support staff the opportunity to discuss concerns and share experiences with Cancer Center leaders.

A Cancer Center support staff member who recently attended one of the programs commented, "The presenter didn't simply read off material, she explained in full as if it was her own experience. She really connected with us."

To date, 29 programs have been held, and 20 to 30 support staff members have attended each program. During the next few months, staff needs will be re-evaluated and the curriculum will continue to grow. Cancer Center support staff learn how to cope with holiday stress.

Cancer Center staff learn how to cope with holiday stress.