|
If roles become reversed |
Talk about changes to avoid misunderstandings; discuss ways to meet each other’s needs. |
|
If your partner starts doing everything for you, and this affects your sense of independence |
Explain that it’s important for you to still feel involved at home and with the family, even if you can only do small tasks. |
|
If everyone hides feelings to protect one another |
Try to be open and honest and tell other people what you need most from them. |
|
If others are overprotective or won’t leave you alone |
Set boundaries to maintain your sense of independence. |
|
If they refuse to believe the prognosis |
Give family and friends time to come to terms with the prognosis. Ask if they’d like to speak to your health care team. |
|
If they avoid talking about the diagnosis because they think they may upset you |
Guide others on how much you want to talk about the diagnosis and whether you’re interested in discussing other topics. |
|
If they ignore you or stay away |
Make others feel more comfortable by letting them know you’re interested in keeping in touch. |
Listen to our podcasts on Explaining Cancer to Kids and Family Dynamics and Cancer
More resources
Prof Nicholas Glasgow, Head, Calvary Palliative and End of Life Care Research Institute, ACT; Kathryn Bennett, Nurse Practitioner, Eastern Palliative Care Association Inc., VIC; Dr Maria Ftanou, Head, Clinical Psychology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Research Fellow, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, VIC; Erin Ireland, Legal Counsel, Cancer Council NSW; Nikki Johnston, Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner, Clare Holland House, Calvary Public Hospital Bruce, ACT; Judy Margolis, Consumer; Linda Nolte, Program Director, Advance Care Planning Australia; Kate Reed- Cox, Nurse Practitioner, National Clinical Advisor, Palliative Care Australia; Helena Rodi, Project Manager, Advance Care Planning Australia; Kaitlyn Thorne, Coordinator Cancer Support, 13 11 20, Cancer Council Queensland.
View the Cancer Council NSW editorial policy.
Need to talk?
Support services
Online Community
Check out this supportive online community for people affected by cancer
Cancer Connect
Talk to someone who has experienced cancer
Cancer information
The emotional impact of advanced cancer
First reactions and ongoing effects of an advanced cancer diagnosis
Making treatment decisions for advanced cancer
Weighing up the benefits and side effects of treatment