Supportive Therapy

Cancer Terms -> Retired Concepts -> Retired Concept 2005 -> Supportive Therapy

Supportive Therapy Definition

Supportive therapy may provide a patient with friendship, encouragement, practical advice such as access to community resources or how to develop a more active social life, vocational counseling, suggestions for minimizing friction with family members, and, above all, hope that the life of the patient may be improved. Depending upon the severity of the symptoms, supportive therapy may begin with a healthcare professional helping the individual to recall the events and emotions that occurred before the acute episode, so that he or she may be able to watch for and recognize approaching signs of trouble. In all situations, supportive therapy involves the teaching of such life skills as managing medication, learning to socialize, handling finances, and getting a job. Ideally, in-patient programs should be linked as much as possible with appropriate community-based programs, to provide a continuing pattern of care. (From Health Canada)