The stressor criterion for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the DSM-IV includes life-threatening illnesses as precipitating traumatic events. Recent research confirms the presence of PTSD in individuals and family members with life-threatening illnesses, such as cancer. This session will review the research on PTSD and cancer and present clinical implications for medical social workers.

Learning Objectives: 

Participants will gain knowledge in two broad areas:

1. Broadening our view of trauma and gaining awareness of the population of individuals who have experienced trauma in the medical setting

• How many people are affected by this

• Diagnostic criteria for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

• Research studies validating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and cancer survivors

2. Clinical implications for patients, family members, and professionals

• Validation of individual who is experiencing trauma, treatment, and survivorship of a life-threatening illness

• Normalization of the reaction to trauma

• Access to appropriate clinical support, assessment, and intervention at diagnosis—through treatment and beyond

Faculty:

LINDA WEITZ, MS, MSW

Linda Weitz, MS, MSW, while completing her MSW degree from the University of Minnesota -Twin Cities, Linda Weitz, MS, MSW, interned on the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota and on the Intensive Care and Cardiac Care Units at Wausau Hospital in Wausau, Wisconsin. Linda`s clinical interests include implementing effective interventions for patients affected by the trauma of serious illness, incorporating research into medical social work practice, addressing grief and loss issues, and adapting a culturally competent practice. She is employed as a social work supervisor for Wood County.