This presentation discusses psychosocial challenges that can arise before, during and after a bone marrow/stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy, strategies to manage them, resources that can help, and when to consult a mental health professional.

Many transplant recipients experience distress, anxiety, depression and/or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after transplant. This presentation discusses how to develop coping strategies and resilience to bounce back and experience emotional growth after transplant.

A stem cell transplant can be emotionally challenging and disrupt normal life and relationships, at least for a time. Acknowledging these challenges and cultivating social and professional support can help restore emotional health. This presentation describes common emotions patients feel after transplant and some effective methods for coping with them.

Recovering from a transplant poses many challenges for a patient’s personal relationships with spouses, partners, family members, and friends. While they may wish for a return to “normal,” this may not be possible and new standards for “normal” may emerge. This presentation offers strategies for navigating these changing relationships and fostering positive outcomes.

Emotional difficulties after a stem cell transplant are common for both the patient and caregiver. There are a variety of self-help techniques for dealing with emotional difficulties. Support groups, one-on-one peer support and therapists can be helpful in managing emotional challenges.

Transplant survivors with Graft versus Host Disease (GVHD) have a high likelihood of developing emotional and mental health complications. However, there are many strategies for survivors to cope and overcome, anxiety, depression and PTSD associated with GVHD.

Recovering emotionally after a bone marrow, stem cell or cord blood transplant can take many months for survivors and family members alike. Living in the present, rather than dwelling on the past or fearing the future, can improve survivors’ emotional health after transplant.