Fortis Cancer Institute Launches Cancer Support Helpline for Families of Cancer Patients Dealing with Distress

CHENNAI: Fortis Cancer Institute has launched a cancer support helpline to provide psychological support for patients as well as their family members. The National helpline number- 8586091051 will act as a medium of communication for families to help them cope with the emotional distress experienced in their fight against cancer. A team of mental health experts as part of the psycho-oncology program by Fortis Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences will be available to provide help to those reaching out on the helpline number.

Cancer needs long-term treatment, right from diagnosis to therapy and rehabilitation. Besides the physical distress associated with cancer and its treatment, it can also significantly impact emotional well-being, with patients and care-givers experiencing fear, anxiety, low moods, adjustment difficulties and lifestyle changes. What is required at this time is psycho-social support to help families to build resilience to fight this disease together, and this is the very purpose behind the launch of National Cancer Support Helpline by Fortis Cancer Institute.