Division of Psychiatry

The Division of Psychiatry at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital works within the broader psychosocial care team to promote the best possible quality of life for our patients. Medical illness and treatments, as well as the often significant changes in environments, may challenge our patient’s ability to cope and impact their ability to complete treatment. Additionally, some patients have pre-existing mental health needs that continue to require treatment during their time at St. Jude. Psychiatry consults with St. Jude providers to identify those patients who may benefit from medication management in addition to the supports provided by other members of the psychosocial care team.  We also work with medical teams to identify and treat changes in attention, awareness, and cognition. These changes, generally called delirium, are often managed with psychiatric medications and environmental changes. Please note that our division works only with current St. Jude patients being treated for illnesses such as cancer, sickle cell disease, or infectious diseases.