This information is written for those affected by cancer: you, someone in your family or a friend.
Everyone with cancer copes in their own way. The diagnosis may cause you to feel a range of strong emotions such as fear about death, anger, hope, guilt, denial, sadness, loneliness and anticipation. These are all natural reactions to such a significant change.
A cancer diagnosis will affect relationships with family, friends and carers, and each person has their own way of coping. This website has some suggestions for working together to adjust to these changes. There is also information included for people caring for someone with cancer, with details on support services available.
The emotional effects of cancer can last long after treatment. It is common for people to feel anxious about minor signs of illness or pain, fearing a recurrence. Some people find that facing cancer has changed
their life in positive ways.
Although this material is intended to be helpful, some sections may not apply to you or you might feel uncomfortable with some of the suggestions. Just read the parts that are useful to you. If you come across a word you don't understand, see the section What does this word mean? for definitions of some common medical terms.
More information
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- Emotions and Cancer
[Size: 521KB]
[revised May 2009]
A guide for people with cancer, their families and friends
Request a booklet
For a free printed copy of Emotions and Cancer please call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.
Editorial Policy
Read the editorial policy
for the Understanding Cancer series.
Content revised May 2009.
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