Standing Together: The Essential Role of Mental Health Support in Cancer Care
- Shane Warren
- Feb 4
- 2 min read
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
4 February 2026
On World Cancer Day, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) stands with all individuals, families, carers, and communities affected by cancer.
A cancer diagnosis impacts far more than the body. It can affect identity, relationships, financial stability, and emotional wellbeing. Anxiety, grief, fear, uncertainty, and exhaustion are common responses, not signs of weakness, but human reactions to profound change.
VMHPAA Chair Shane Warren emphasised the importance of integrating mental health care into cancer treatment and recovery:
“Cancer is not only a physical health journey, it is a psychological one. Supporting mental wellbeing during diagnosis, treatment, remission, or palliative care is not optional; it is essential. When we care for the mind as well as the body, people are better supported to cope, connect, and navigate the uncertainty that cancer brings.”
Mental health practitioners, counsellors, psychosocial support workers, and community-based professionals play a critical role in helping individuals and families process complex emotions, manage stress, strengthen resilience, and maintain connection during treatment and recovery.
World Cancer Day is also a reminder that carers and loved ones often carry invisible burdens. Supporting their mental health is equally important.
VMHPAA calls for continued recognition of:
The psychological impact of cancer at every stage of the journey
The importance of accessible, trauma-informed mental health services
Whole-person care models that integrate physical and emotional wellbeing
If you or someone you care about is struggling during a cancer journey, reaching out for support is a sign of strength. No one should navigate this alone.
On World Cancer Day, we honour courage, acknowledge hardship, and reaffirm our commitment to compassionate, holistic care.
Media Contact:
Shane Warren, Chair
Susan Sandy, Secretary
Philip Armstrong, CEO
#WorldCancerDay #MentalWellbeing #WholePersonCare #SupportAndConnection #CarersMatter #HopeAndHealing #CommunityCare #VMHPAA
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