April 9 is the Official World Psycho-Oncology Day

The International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS) has introduced World Psycho-Oncology Day, a new global initiative designed to raise awareness about the emotional and psychological challenges faced by people with cancer and their caregivers.

April 9 marks the first celebration of this important day. World Psycho-Oncology Day aims to highlight the psychological and emotional impact of cancer. It brings together professionals, institutions, and communities to advocate for improved mental health support for cancer patients and their caregivers.

This day is also a tribute to the remarkable legacy of Dr. Jimmie Holland, the founder of psycho-oncology and a true pioneer in the field. Her work transformed cancer care by insisting that mental health and emotional well-being are just as important as physical treatment.

Dr. Holland, shown here in a photo from the early 1990s/www.mskcc.org

Back in 1977, Dr. Holland became the first Chief of the Psychiatry Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering – the first service of its kind at any cancer center in the world. She later chaired MSK’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, created the first training and research programs in psycho-oncology, co-founded both IPOS and the American Psychosocial Oncology Society, and helped make psychosocial research a priority for organizations like the American Cancer Society.

But her work went far beyond titles and institutions. She deeply understood that behind every diagnosis is a person—often afraid, overwhelmed, and in need of compassion. In her later years, she focused on supporting older adults with cancer, even starting a book club for her patients to reflect on aging and life through literature.

Dr. Holland passed away in 2017, but her vision lives on. World Psycho-Oncology Day is more than just a date – it’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much more we can do to support the emotional lives of people affected by cancer.

To mark the occasion, the International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS) has released a special video highlighting the significance of this day.

How can we all be part of this movement?

World Psycho-Oncology Day isn’t just a day of recognition—it’s a call to action.

Its goals are clear: to raise global awareness about the importance of psychosocial support in cancer care, to honor the legacy of Dr. Jimmie Holland, and to bring healthcare professionals, organizations, policymakers, and the public together to make real change. It’s about making sure that mental health is no longer seen as separate from cancer care – but as a fundamental part of it.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a caregiver, a patient, or simply someone who cares, there are many ways to get involved:

• Spread the word – share stories, launch social media campaigns, or organize awareness events in your community or institution.
• Host talks, workshops, or educational events to promote understanding of psycho-oncology.
• Partner with hospitals, universities, or advocacy groups to promote access to psychosocial services.
• Advocate for policy changes that prioritize mental health in cancer care systems.
• Light up a local landmark, organize a virtual event, or share the IPOS video to help amplify the message globally.

Let’s use this day to educate, engage, and empower. Let’s work together to ensure that no one faces cancer without the mental and emotional support they deserve.

Because cancer care isn’t complete without psycho-oncology.

People and societies have already started getting involved with World Psycho-Oncology Day by raising awareness. Here are some highlights from social media:

Alisa Kamalyan:

“Today, April 9, 2025, represents the inaugural World Psycho-Oncology Day launched by the International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS).

World Psycho-Oncology Day will serve as a global platform to raise awareness about the critical importance of supporting the psychological and emotional well-being of individuals affected by cancer.

This meaningful day also will honor the extraordinary legacy of the late Dr. Jimmie Holland founder of the field of psycho-oncology, whose pioneering work forever changed the way we understand and address the psychosocial dimensions of cancer care.

I am proud that we were fortunate to meet Dr. Jimmie Holland in her office at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital in 2016. She welcomed us with her warm smile and heartfelt hugs, offering words of encouragement that left a lasting impact.

Her work continues to inspire psychosocial professionals around the world to improve the lives of cancer patients.”

International Society of Paediatric Oncology – SIOP

“Today, April 9, 2025, represents the inaugural World Psycho-Oncology Day. SIOP is proud to stand alongside our global psycho-oncology colleagues in recognition of the vital role of psychosocial care in paediatric cancer treatment. Psychosocial care is fundamental to supporting children and young people impacted by cancer and we acknowledge the dedicated workforce across the globe undertaking this important work.

We acknowledge our dedicated SIOP Psycho-oncology leaders and their important contributions to SIOP in terms of education and advocacy. To our PPO Network and our GHN Psychosocial Wellbeing WG members, we thank you for your vital work to ensure that every child with cancer, and their family, receives the compassionate, evidence-based psychosocial support and guidance they need.

Happy World Psycho-Oncology Day!”

Foluke Sarimiye:

“April 9th has been officially designated as World Psycho-Oncology Day.

As a passionate advocate for holistic cancer care, I firmly believe and often say that ‘Psycho-Oncology is the heart and soul of holistic, comprehensive cancer care and control.’ I’m thrilled to see this recognition! Let’s celebrate this milestone and continue to amplify the importance of integrating Psycho-Oncological care into comprehensive patient-centered care.

Click the link to join the celebration and learn more!”

Read also Adrian Pogacian’s special article about World Psycho-Oncology Day on OncoDaily.