Overview

We know that cancer can be more than a physical disease as it touches the deepest fears of patients and their families. For this reason, we provide information to lessen the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis. We encourage you to accept help when offered and to reach out for the support you need. Each individual will have different needs. What is meaningful to one person may be meaningless to another.

Support, in and of itself, is a vital part of the cancer diagnosis and treatment. This is true because a diagnosis of cancer creates a crisis for patients and their loved ones. Lifestyle, goals, plans, and dreams are disrupted. You may find at first that you are in shock. You may feel overloaded with new information and confused by unfamiliar medical terms and procedures. Rational thinking and good personal decision making become very difficult as you try to adjust to this new and frightening situation. You may feel as though your situation is happening to someone else. You may even deny the problem or its implications for your life and your future.

Gradually your ability to think clearly and to participate in treatment decisions will improve. Panic subsides but periods of fear, anxiety, and anger are normal as you go through treatment and face unfamiliar and stressful situations. At times you and your family may feel that your lives are out of control. Crisis situations also bring opportunity for growth, closeness, and new appreciation of life and relationships. Many people find it helps to focus on living for today - here and now - rather than on long term, future plans. Short term goals and giving yourself regular rewards may help you to get through difficult days. Sharing thoughts and feelings with others can help you get the emotional support you need. Isolating yourself from others increases depression and feelings of helplessness. Encourage family members to stay involved with their own friends. Coping with cancer is made easier by the energy, caring and sharing of others.

We know that it is helpful to discuss your concerns - whether it is to a friend, family member, or spiritual advisor; in a support group of people going through a similar situation; or to yourself through a journal. Find the method that works best for you. The information in this section will hopefully provide practical information and emotional support for those facing a diagnosis of cancer.