Gathering information

Once diagnosed, there is a lot of information to take in – and well-meaning family and friends may give you even more. This “information overload” can leave you overwhelmed and confused about what to do. You may only need information that is relevant to your situation right now or a way of dealing with the information you already have.

Look for reliable information

Make sure your information comes from recognised cancer experts and is based on evidence. Cancer Council has booklets, online information and podcasts about different cancer types, treatments and issues. Some information on the internet is not trustworthy – here is a list of reliable websites.

Ask questions

If you are unsure or confused about certain information, it can help to talk to your treatment team. Write down your questions beforehand and put them in order of how important they are right now. You can also call Cancer Council 13 11 20 to discuss your concerns.

Involve other people

Ask people you trust to help gather and make sense of new information. You could also choose a close family member or friend to come to your appointments with you. Let them know if you’d like them to take notes and/or join in the discussion.

Find out about suitable clinical trials

Your doctor or nurse may suggest you take part in a clinical trial. Doctors run clinical trials to test new or modified treatments to see if they are better than current methods. Over the years, trials have led to better outcomes for people with cancer. You can find trials online at australiancancertrials.gov.au.

Get organised

Start a filing system for all your test results, information and records. You also have the option of using My Health Record, an online system provided by the Australian Government – visit myhealthrecord.gov.au to find out more.

Keep a diary

You can use a paper diary or smartphone app to keep track of appointments and side effects, and highlight missing information. This will also be a useful record in the future (especially if you are seeing different professionals in different locations).

Update your affairs

Many people with cancer review their superannuation and insurance policies, and update their will and other legal documents. This doesn’t mean you have given up hope − everyone needs to do these things at some point and you might feel relieved once they are done.

Find support

There are many ways to connect with other people in a similar situation. Cancer Council runs face-to-face and telephone support groups, or can put you in touch with someone who has had a similar cancer experience. You could also join our online discussion forum. Find out more about support from Cancer Council.

The first thing is, I found it useful to read fact-based articles about the cancer I had. The second thing was doing physical activity that needs a high degree of concentration. And the third thing was talking in a peer group. I found those three things very useful in managing fear.

Matt