When a serious illness affects a child or adolescent, it also impacts the entire family. At St. Jude, our social workers can help you through the care process, so you do not face these challenges alone. We provide support and counseling as you and your family adjust to diagnosis and treatment.
In your first weeks at St. Jude, a social worker will meet with you to learn more about you and your family. They will get details on your family’s strengths, challenges, and needs to help your care team best support you.
How can a Social Worker help you and your family?
A St. Jude social worker can provide counseling, support, and education about:
- Adjusting to diagnosis and treatment
- The impact of illness on family relationships
- Communicating needs or questions to the care team
- Preparing to return home
- Completing active treatment or transitioning from pediatric to adult care
- Local and national community, financial and healthcare resources, including wish groups
- Completing advance directives
When should you talk to a social worker?
A social worker can meet with you while you are at St. Jude to provide supportive counseling and offer other help as needed. Social workers are available Monday through Friday during regular business hours (8 a.m.–5 p.m.). A social worker is also available after hours for emergencies.
To learn more about Social Work services at St. Jude or to reach a social worker, call 901-595-3670. If you are inside the hospital, dial 3670. If you are outside the Memphis area, call toll-free 1-866-2STJUDE (1-866-278-5833), extension 3670.
Caregiver Connections
Coping with a child’s diagnosis, illness, and treatment can be challenging. Our social workers offer a way for you to connect with others who face similar issues. Caregiver Connections can help you find and share hope, meaning, comfort and support. Small groups help you meet people, make friends and learn new ways to cope.
Caregiver Connections groups provide:
- A spot to meet and connect with other St. Jude families
- Tips and information for navigating illness and treatment
- Methods to manage stress, fear and fatigue
- A chance to learn from other people’s stories and share your own
- Support from licensed social workers and parent mentors
- A friendly circle of comfort, community and care
Learn more by visiting the Our St. Jude Patient App for specific group dates and times. Contact your social worker with any questions.