For children diagnosed with cancer, treatment is often a long and difficult journey. Many must leave behind the comfort of home, school, and everyday childhood to spend months – or even years – in hospitals, undergoing chemotherapy and painful medical procedures.
According to a study published in the Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nursing, children and adolescents with cancer may experience significant mental health challenges throughout treatment. The study found that 13.92% showed symptoms of anxiety, 20.43% experienced depression, and 20.90% exhibited symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
These findings highlight why psychosocial support has become an essential component of comprehensive pediatric cancer care, alongside medical treatment.
Recognizing this need, the KARE program of Vietnam Children’s Fund has been providing Creative Arts Therapy-based psychosocial support sessions, offering children a safe and welcoming space to play, explore, and express themselves.
Through creative activities such as visual arts, movement and dance, music, and other expressive art forms, children are encouraged to communicate emotions that may be difficult to put into words, reduce stress, and strengthen connections with their parents, healthcare professionals, and those around them. These experiences help foster resilience, a sense of agency, and emotional well-being, supporting children as they continue their treatment journey.
You can help send a warm embrace to children battling cancer by supporting our campaign through Vietnam’s National Humanitarian Portal 1400. Your contribution will help provide essential medical and psychosocial support, ensuring that children receive the comprehensive care they need throughout their treatment journey:
