AHN Launches Innovative Program to Support Mental Health of Stage Four Breast Cancer Patients

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing the psychological toll of breast cancer, Allegheny Health Network (AHN) has launched a new program tailored specifically for patients diagnosed with stage four breast cancer. This pioneering effort, the first of its kind in Pittsburgh, seeks to bridge the gap between mental and physical health care, recognizing the profound impact a cancer diagnosis can have on an individual’s mental well-being. David Bartlett, Chair of the AHN Cancer Institute, emphasizes the urgency of this initiative, noting that approximately one-third of cancer patients experience severe anxiety and depression upon receiving their diagnosis. “When someone hears, you have cancer, it becomes not just a physical fight, but a mental one too,” he said. This reality underscores the need for comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional challenges faced by patients. The program, hosted at Allegheny General Hospital, will focus on the specific needs of those living with metastatic breast cancer, a condition that, while treatable, currently has no cure. The psychological burden can be overwhelming, and the new pilot program aims to provide a supportive environment where patients can receive timely mental health resources alongside their medical treatment. Stephanie Brezinski, a licensed psychologist at AHN, highlighted the traditional separation between mental health and physical health care. “To really be able to bridge the two and offer it like a one-stop shop, I think is addressing this important need,” she asserted. The integration of mental health support into the cancer care continuum is a crucial step in fostering a holistic approach to treatment. The program was made possible through a generous $50,000 donation from A Glimmer of Hope Foundation, presented during an event on Wednesday morning. Founder Diana Napper expressed her hope that this initiative will create a more compassionate care model for patients. “Unfortunately, a lot of young women are metastatic. They’re here, and they’re having a bad day, or they’ve just had a scan and are waiting for results. Now, they have someone to talk to,” she remarked. Napper also emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that the funds were raised through Pitch for Hope, an event that partnered with Pirates Charities to support this vital initiative. “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, illustrating the community’s commitment to improving the lives of those affected by breast cancer. With this new program, AHN aims not only to treat the physical symptoms of stage-four breast cancer but to provide a comprehensive support system that addresses the emotional and psychological struggles that often accompany such a daunting diagnosis. As this initiative takes root, it promises to make a significant difference in the lives of patients, offering them the care and compassion they need during one of the most challenging times of their lives.