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Several evidence-based guidelines and guides have been developed to assist health services and health professionals in identifying and managing the psychosocial needs of people with cancer. There are also resources available to support patients and their families. 

Clinical practice guidelines

This is a clinical pathway providing evidence-based recommendations to guide best practice and care in the management of anxiety and depression in people diagnosed with cancer. 

These are general guidelines for the assessment and management of distress in patients with cancer. It covers the current evidence for screening for anxiety and distress in high-risk populations, communication and psychological care for people with cancer experiencing distress. 

This is a general guideline for psychosocial palliative care, but makes multiple references to people with cancer. It covers current evidence for communication, psychological distress, screening and assessment, interventions and management, psychological care for the marginalised, bereavement care and staff support. 

Consumer resources

This booklet for patients and their families provides practical advice for people who have been diagnosed with advanced cancer.  

This booklet helps patients and their families navigate the emotions they may feel when diagnosed with cancer. 

  • Cancer: how are you travelling? (Cancer Australia, 2010) 

This resource provides information about the emotional and social impact of cancer. It has been written for people diagnosed with cancer, their family and friends.