discussion – disease

The end-of-life process can be traumatic and overwhelming for the chronically ill patient and their family. Similarly, this process also poses significant challenges for mental health providers that accompany patients along this journey. Understanding the cultural factors, experiences, and biases that might shape our perceptions of the end-of life process can allow us to competently provide services at this difficult stage. The following article examines the importance of providers’ understanding and recognition of the unique and specific influences culture has on a patients behavior, attitudes, preferences, and decisions around end-of-life care. 

After reading this article, post some comments regarding how some of your own personal views and beliefs could either facilitate or hinder your efforts to provide support for patients in this phase of their illness.