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On the clinical psychologist's role in the time of COVID ‐19, with particular reference to experience gained in pediatric oncology
Author(s) -
Clerici Carlo Alfredo,
Massimino Maura,
Ferrari Andrea
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
psycho‐oncology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.41
H-Index - 137
eISSN - 1099-1611
pISSN - 1057-9249
DOI - 10.1002/pon.5418
Subject(s) - covid-19 , pediatric oncology , medicine , oncology , psychology , virology , cancer , disease , infectious disease (medical specialty) , outbreak
Objective The COVID‐19 pandemic seems to be developing into a planetary‐scale mental health experiment, undermining the foundations of our being human, obliging us to keep physically apart from one another, and inducing us to see other people as a potential threat. Methods In the world of pediatric oncology, we have found ourselves up against new challenges. In this article, we discuss the difficulties found in conducting psychological support sessions while complying with physical distancing rules, as well as wearing protective face masks, and even gloves; or while using modern remote communication telecommunications. Results The classic reasons behind requests for psychological support have been compounded by other, novel problems, such as: fewer relational resources for families at home, less chance to socialize, hospital stays with only one parent, the suspension of all teaching and group activities on the ward, economic difficulties caused by the pandemic, the rising levels of family conflictuality and generalized anxiety. Conclusions It is essential to find new solutions that can be promptly implemented, reconfiguring the way we humanize our hospital wards.