AHN Launches Innovative Program to Support Mental Health in Stage Four Breast Cancer Care

In a groundbreaking effort to address the psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis, the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) has launched a new program specifically designed for patients diagnosed with stage four metastatic breast cancer. This initiative represents a significant step forward in the integration of mental health care within cancer treatment, recognizing that a cancer diagnosis is not only a physical battle but also a profound emotional one. Dr. David Bartlett, Chair of the AHN Cancer Institute, emphasized the critical need for mental health support, noting that roughly one-third of cancer patients experience severe anxiety and depression upon receiving their diagnosis. The launch of this pilot program at Allegheny General Hospital aims to provide comprehensive care that acknowledges the mental health challenges faced by these patients. “The mental struggle can be debilitating,” Dr. Bartlett remarked, underscoring the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of cancer treatment. By merging mental health care with physical health services, the program aims to create a more holistic approach to patient care, allowing individuals to receive the support they need in a unified setting. Stephanie Brezinski, a licensed psychologist at AHN, shared her perspective on the program’s design. “Traditionally, I feel like mental health care is separate from physical health care,” she explained. “So to really be able to bridge the two and offer it like a one-stop shop, I think is addressing this important need.” This approach not only provides immediate access to mental health resources but also fosters a sense of community for patients grappling with similar struggles. The initiative received a significant boost with a $50,000 donation from the A Glimmer of Hope Foundation, presented during a ceremony on Wednesday morning. Founder Diana Napper spoke passionately about the program’s importance, particularly for younger women facing metastatic breast cancer. “A lot of young women are metastatic,” she said. “So, they’re here, and they’re having a bad day, or they’ve had a scan and they’re waiting for results, they have someone to talk to.” Napper also highlighted the collaborative nature of funding for this initiative, noting that the money was raised through the Pitch for Hope event, a partnership with Pirates Charities. “I do not have $50,000 in my pocket. All collectively, all the groups that are here today came together and supported this initiative,” she stated, emphasizing the power of community support in making such vital programs a reality. As the program rolls out, there is hope that it will significantly improve the quality of life for patients battling stage-four breast cancer, offering them not just medical treatment, but a supportive environment where their mental health needs are prioritized. This innovative approach could serve as a model for other healthcare institutions, highlighting the necessity of integrating mental health care within cancer treatment to ensure that patients receive the comprehensive care they deserve.