Psychological care for people with melanoma: What, when, why and how?

Objectives: To provide an update on the psychosocial challenges faced by people with melanoma, and ways of addressing barriers to supportive care. Data Sources: Refereed journal articles, scholarly texts, monographs. Conclusion: Psychological needs of people with melanoma frequently go undetected and unmet. Approximately 30% of all patients diagnosed with melanoma report levels of psychological distress, indicating the need for clinical assessment and support. Implications for Nursing Practice: Psychological interventions using a range of therapeutic approaches can improve quality of life and enhance resilience in people with melanoma, including reducing anxiety and depression. Nurses can help institute and promote supportive care programs that incorporate these interventions.