Should I tell my co-workers?

There is no wrong or right answer – it is a personal decision that depends on what you want. Sharing details about the diagnosis and treatment may make you feel uncomfortable, or you may not want to answer questions. You may be concerned your co-workers will treat you differently.

You can talk to your employer about whether or not you plan to tell your co-workers. Points to consider include:

• the types of relationships you have with other staff
• whether your workplace is collaborative, friendly and supportive, or distrustful and negative
• who you feel you can trust with personal matters
• the impact on team unity if you tell some people and not others
• how your workplace has dealt with other employees with cancer or other serious illnesses
• whether your co-workers need to know what to do if you become unwell at work.

It can be difficult to hide your illness if you work in a close-knit team. You may be away from work for some time. The cancer or treatment side effects may also have a visible impact on your behaviour or appearance. Your co-workers may wonder about these changes. Some may even become resentful if they think that you aren’t doing your fair share of work and don’t understand why.

Sharing information about your cancer with close workmates gives them an opportunity to express their concern for your wellbeing and discuss ways they can help you.