Discussion Series
For some of the most critical topics, we know there’s always more to say. Some things we just need to talk about.​
Discussion Series are an opportunity to take a deep dive into the most important issues. Join for one session, or participate in the entire month-long series for extended learning and discussion in a group setting.
Each ninety minute online workshop will focus on a different aspect of the overall topic, featuring a presentation and small group discussions. The first 30 minutes of the session will be a recorded presentation to be shared on our website as a mini-webinar available to our full community. The final hour will be a confidential discussion section and will not be recorded.
May Discussion Series: Mental Health and Wellbeing
A Two Week Series
It’s common for many AYAs to experience mental health challenges both during treatment and once treatment has ended. Stress, worry, and isolation may cause you to feel confused and disconnected from both yourself and others. Led by Giselle Perez-Lougee, PhD, week 1 of this 2 week discussion series explores the unique impacts of social media on mental health and the best ways it can be used to foster connection without harming your wellbeing. Week 2 explores common mental health concerns and idenity confusion after treatment has ended. We hope to see you there to connect with other AYAs and learn strategies to enhance your mental wellness.
Healthy Ways to Interact with Social Media
Tuesday, May 21, 12:00 – 1:30 PM ET
Social media can create a paradoxical experience. It can be a wonderful way to connect with others, but it can also increase feelings of distress and isolation. Join this discussion to learn different ways to optimally use social media to enhance social connection and wellbeing while minimizing its harmful effects.
Lost in Transition
Thursday, May 30, 12:00 – 1:30 PM ETÂ
Many AYAs report a loss of social and emotional supports once treatment has ended. They are expected to move on with their life while still processing the trauma they just experienced. This can leave AYAs feeling abandoned and disconnected from friends and family. The transition from patient to survivor can feel lonely and confusing. Join this discussion session to connect with AYAs navigating similar challenges as they enter survivorship.
Please review the Digital Programs Code of Conduct before attending and make sure to download Zoom before logging on. It’s free!
February Discussion Series:
Dating & Relationships
Tuesdays from 12:00 - 1:30 pm ET
There are a lot of side effects that come with cancer treatment but we often aren’t prepared for the impact cancer can have on dating and romantic relationships. Whether you are single and interested in dating or in a committed relationship, cancer can create many relationship challenges. Join this 2 week discussion series to better understand these difficulties, learn some coping mechanisms, and connect with other AYAs that get it.
Single and Maybe Ready to Mingle
Tuesday, February 6Â
Navigating a cancer diagnosis is hard. Many AYAs are navigating cancer at a time in their life when they also want to date and explore new relationships which can often feel like a lonely and difficult experience. Cancer treatment can cause physical and emotional changes that change how you feel about yourself and make dating more challenging. Life threatening illnesses are not the best ice breakers so how do you talk about these parts of yourself to new romantic interests? Whether you are interested in something casual, a situationship, or a long-term relationship cancer can complicate sex and intimacy. Join this discussion session to connect with other single AYAs trying to figure it out.
Long-term Relationships: In Sickness and in Health
Tuesday, February 13
Cancer can strain even the strongest relationships. Cancer treatment can alter physical intimacy, create new challenges with parenting, change plans for the future, and cause difficulties with fertility. This can be overwhelming to both partners and cause depression, anxiety, or anger. Our partners may cope differently with these challenges causing communication and relationship difficulties. Join this discussion session to better understand the impact cancer can have on long-term romantic relationships while connecting with other AYAs and learning new tools for coping.