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Integrating Mental Health into Oncology Care
Introduction
To help address this challenge, GAMIAN-Europe has launched the initiative in collaboration with Cancer Patients Europe. Building on the existing Cancer & Mental Health Hub and linked to the ALTHEA project, the project aims to improve access to mental health resources for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals while encouraging the integration of psychosocial support into cancer care pathways.
The initiative also contributes to the objectives of the European Week Against Cancer 2026, which raises awareness about cancer prevention, equal access to care, patient support, and quality of life for people affected by cancer across Europe. Through its focus on psychosocial support and patient-centred care, the project aligns with wider European efforts to improve holistic cancer care and reduce inequalities in support services.
In addition, the project supports the priorities highlighted in the European Week Against Cancer 2026 Action Toolkit, which encourages organisations, healthcare professionals, advocates, and patient groups to take action in improving cancer care, awareness, and support systems across Europe. By promoting the integration of mental health into oncology care, the initiative contributes to broader advocacy efforts aimed at strengthening comprehensive and compassionate cancer care pathways.
The initiative focuses on raising awareness, identifying gaps in psycho-oncology care, and encouraging more patient-centred and holistic approaches to oncology treatment. Through advocacy, collaboration, and practical tools, the project seeks to ensure that mental health becomes a routine and recognised part of cancer care across Europe.
About the Project
The Integrating Mental Health into Oncology Care project is an advocacy-driven initiative that aims to improve how mental health support is integrated into oncology services across Europe. The project responds to growing evidence showing that psychological distress is highly prevalent among people affected by cancer and can significantly impact quality of life, treatment adherence, and overall health outcomes.
The project combines research, advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and digital resources to help bridge the gap between oncology and mental health care. It seeks to support both patients and healthcare professionals by promoting more accessible, coordinated, and compassionate care models.
The initiative includes:
- Mapping gaps in psycho-oncology care across Europe, including service availability, training needs, and policy differences
- Identifying barriers that prevent patients from accessing mental health support during cancer treatment and survivorship
- Promoting integrated care pathways that include routine mental health screening and referral systems
- Supporting healthcare professionals through awareness activities, educational resources, and practical guidance
- Strengthening advocacy efforts to encourage the inclusion of psychosocial support in national cancer strategies and healthcare policies
Objectives
Through this initiative, GAMIAN-Europe aims to:
- Raise awareness of the psychological impact of cancer and the importance of integrated mental health support
- Improve understanding of existing gaps in psycho-oncology services and training across Europe
- Encourage the adoption of patient-centred oncology care models that include mental health support as a standard practice
- Support healthcare professionals with practical tools and resources to better address patients’ psychosocial needs
- Strengthen collaboration between patient organisations, healthcare providers, policymakers, and advocacy groups
- Promote policy changes that formally recognise psychosocial support as an essential component of oncology care
Get in touch
If you would like to know more about this project, contact us at communications@gamian.eu.
Get in touch!
Communications
General questions
secretariat@gamian.eu
Address
Rue du Trône 60, 1050 Ixelles, Belgium