First Nations Cancer and Wellbeing Research Program Summer Research projects
Psychosocial support for cancer survivors among adolescent and young adults
Project duration, hours of engagement | 6 weeks between 13 January and 21 February in 2025 32 |
Location: | Herston: School of Public Health Building |
Description: | Most lifetime mental disorders are reported to first emerge in young people in their mid-teens to mid-twenties. Cancer diagnoses at this age can significantly affect normal development and mental health. While cancer treatments are generally directed at cancer control to improve mortality, supportive care may be more the focus and priority for long-term care, especially for common cancers that have high survival outcome, in addition, short-term quality of life palliative care for those with highly advanced cancers. Despite increasing awareness of mental health effects of cancer, research in this area has been limited. During the study period of 2002-2011, mental health was only addressed in 0.26% of cancer research topics and 0.51% of all mental health research. While limited studies have reported the prevalence of depression and/or anxiety, varied from 16% to 42%, few studies to date assessed the prevalence rates of mental disorders in AYAs cancer patients using a structured clinical interview tool. Developing and evaluating interventions at the system level in the care pathway to best meet AYA cancer survivors’ mental health needs is recognized as an international clinical and research priority. Significant initiatives in age-appropriate, AYA-specific clinical and hospital-based services have been developed over the years. However, these services focused more on the active phases of cancer treatment. Delivering mental health interventions in AYAs after returning to community may best support AYAs’ re-integration after cancer. Different models have been established to improve the outcomes of cancer in AYAs and to reduce unmet needs, but results indicate that many AYA needs remain unmet, especially psychosocial support and information needs in follow-up phases. Studies of psychological support and treatment addressing the need after treatment completion is lacking. |
Expected outcomes and deliverables: | We conducted this review aiming to answer the following questions: 1. What are the different mental health issues and psychosocial disorders among AYA cancer patients that have been studied? 2. What are the Psychosocial Needs and the unmet needs of AYA Cancer Survivors? 3. What are the different interventions and supports available and their impact/gaps? The results will be used to help guide research directions, including study of the impact of mental health on cancer development and outcomes, and ultimately to provide evidenced mental health care for AYA cancer survivors to improve their quality of life. This summer project will provide an opportunity for students to gain experience in conducting research in the field by practicing knowledge gained from their courses in the classrooms, to gain skills in formulating research questions, collecting data, systematically reviewing and appraising research evidence, finding knowledge gaps. Students also have hand on practice in data reporting, drafting research report or manuscript, and presenting their project. I anticipate by guiding the students the simple research journey from this project, students will grow their passion and interest in furthering their study to pursuit a PhD program. |
Suitable for: | This project is open for master students in public health, and epidemiology considering a PhD. |
Primary Supervisor: | Dr Ming Li, m.li3@uq.edu.au The supervisor MUST be contacted by students prior to submission of an application. |
Climate Anxiety Among First Nations Peoples: A Rapid Review
Project duration, hours of engagement | 6 weeks between 13 January and 21 February in 2025 29 |
Location: | Herston: School of Public Health Building |
Description: | This rapid review aims to swiftly synthesize existing research on climate anxiety among First Nations peoples, addressing a growing concern within these communities. Climate change poses significant threats to both the environment and mental health, and First Nations peoples, with their deep connection to land and culture, experience unique challenges. Climate anxiety, characterized by distress over climate impacts, is particularly pronounced in these communities due to their reliance on traditional practices and environmental stewardship. The project will focus on identifying key factors contributing to climate anxiety, examining its psychological and cultural impacts, and evaluating current coping mechanisms and support strategies. By streamlining the review process, this project seeks to provide timely and actionable insights to inform policymakers, mental health professionals, and Indigenous organizations. The methodology involves a focused literature search across academic and Indigenous-specific databases, simplified screening and quality assessment processes, and critical analysis of the findings. The outcome will be a concise summary of the evidence, highlighting the main themes and gaps, with practical recommendations for enhancing support and intervention strategies. This rapid review will contribute to a better understanding of climate anxiety in First Nations communities and offer guidance for effective, culturally sensitive responses to this urgent issue. |
Expected outcomes and deliverables: | Students will gain hands-on experience in conducting literature searches and using academic databases, as well as in analysing and summarizing research findings. They will develop skills in drafting a concise research report and delivering a brief oral presentation. Additionally, participants will deepen their understanding of climate change impacts on First Nations peoples and learn about the rapid review process. By the end of the six weeks, students will have acquired valuable research skills and insights that will enhance their academic and professional development. |
Suitable for: | This project is ideal for undergraduate students with an interest in environmental studies, psychology, Indigenous studies, or social sciences. Students pursuing degrees in areas such as environmental science, social work, anthropology, or public health, as well as those considering further studies or research-focused careers, will find this project particularly relevant and beneficial. |
Primary Supervisor: | Dr Shafkat Jahan, shafkat.jahan@uq.edu.au The supervisor CAN be contacted by students prior to submission of an application. |