Anxiety Management in Palliative and Progressive Conditions

This course is supported by HSCP funding and only staff in HSE/HSE funded roles (including S38/S39) are eligible to apply. 

About the course: 

Anxiety affects people's bodies and minds. It affects concentration and decision-making and can lead to psychological difficulties such as depression. Patients and families may mask anxiety due to fear of 'mental health' labelling. The physical effects of anxiety may result in further treatments or investigations for symptoms including nausea, bowel problems or pain.

Due to its complexity, anxiety can affect performance and participation, lowering life quality in every area. Even small amounts of anxiety can reduce social interaction and engagement in meaningful and rewarding activities.

Some health professionals recognise anxiety but lack knowledge or confidence of when or how to intervene or refer on. Additionally, a common misconception is an expectation that it is normal for people living with palliative and progressive conditions to have anxiety. For these reasons anxiety may be left unexplored, or treated only with medication.

This two-day in-person event is suitable for Occupational Therapists who may already have a basic knowledge of anxiety management; are likely to see patients more than once; and provide goal led interventions. Whilst this course has an emphasis on palliative care and progressive conditions, much of the knowledge and skills learned on this course are transferable to most patient groups where anxiety is a feature.

Learning outcomes: 

·        Appreciation of how anxiety links mind and body systems with particular reference to palliative care and progressive conditions

·        Better understanding of factors which can cause and perpetuate anxiety within this patient group

·        Insight into how understanding anxiety can improve your clinical interventions

·        Information about ways to assess anxiety and identify appropriate goals and interventions

·        A range of practical and effective techniques for reducing and managing anxiety

·        Ideas to increase your confidence and effectiveness in your role, and to help build resilience into your own skills as an Occupational Therapist.

The trainer:
Mara Sheldon is an experienced palliative care occupational therapist who enjoys sharing her knowledge. She has worked in community and hospice in-patient and out-patient environments. Mara has created and facilitated training and education sessions for over 30 years.

Application and Payment information:

• Payment in full is taken at the time of application.
• Payment of the fee does not guarantee you a place at this event.
• Full payment must be received prior to the closing date in order to secure your place.
• If the event is oversubscribed you will be provided with a full refund.
• Successful applicants will be notified that they have a place at the event following the closing date.
• Places are limited and members are advised to apply early to secure a place.
• Please note: notifications will be sent to the email address entered on this application form. Please make sure to enter correctly the email address you wish to use for communication about this event.
• Please read our CPD events cancellation/refund policy. See AOTI T&Cs