How do I manage financial stress?

Money worries are the leading cause of stress for Australians. It is very common for people to struggle with the financial impact of cancer. It’s also common for people to feel too embarrassed to ask for help.

This may be the first time you have ever needed financial help or had difficulty balancing your budget and you don’t know where to start.

A good first step is to talk to a member of your treatment team or call Cancer Council 13 11 20. They will be able to let you know about the services that can help.

Financial stress can add to the worry of being diagnosed with cancer and may feel overwhelming. For some people, it can lead to depression, anxiety, and conflict with family members.

If you have continued feelings of sadness, have trouble getting up in the morning or have lost motivation to do things that previously gave you pleasure, you may be experiencing depression.

Depression is quite common among people who have had cancer.

Getting help with your finances can take a great weight off your mind, but if you are finding it hard to cope emotionally, there are several options to consider:

• Talk to your GP, as counselling and/or medicine – even for a short time – may help. Some people can get a Medicare rebate for sessions with an accredited counsellor or a psychologist. Ask your doctor if you are eligible.
• Check whether you can talk to a psychologist or social worker at your cancer care centre.
• Call 13 11 20 to see if your local Cancer Council runs a counselling program.
• Find information and support about coping with depression and anxiety from Beyond Blue. Call 1300 22 4636. For 24-hour crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Manage your overall stress by doing regular physical activity, eating healthy food, and listening to a meditation or relaxation audio track.

For more on this see Emotions and cancer and listen to our Finding Calm During Cancer Podcast.

Podcast: Coping with a Cancer Diagnosis

Listen to more of our podcast for people affected by cancer