Easy Read – Feelings and cancer
This information is about feelings you may have when you have cancer. It tells you who you can talk to and ways to feel better.
On this page:
Introduction
This information is about how you might feel when you have cancer.
You can ask someone for help to read this information.
You may have many different feelings. This is okay. Your feelings can change every day.
Feeling shocked
Being told you have cancer can be a shock.
You might find it hard to believe.
You might not understand words the doctor uses.
Feeling angry
You may feel angry because having cancer:
- does not feel fair
- changes your plans
- changes you.
Feeling guilty
You may feel guilty because:
- you think it is your fault
- your family is upset
- people have to take care of you.
Feeling scared and worried
You may be worried about:
- pain
- feeling sick
- not getting better.
Feeling sad
Having cancer can make you feel sad.
Feeling sad for more than 2 weeks is called depression.
Being depressed means you may:
- not want to do things you used to enjoy, like hobbies
- sleep a lot or have trouble sleeping
- cry a lot
- not want to eat, or eat more than usual.
Why talking can help
Talking about cancer can be hard. But talking can help you:
- feel better
- feel supported.
Who to talk to about cancer
There are many people you can talk to, like:
- family
- a friend
- your carer or someone else who supports you.
Talk to other people
You can talk to someone who had cancer. You can:
- talk to 1 person
- join a group.
You can talk to a counsellor. A counsellor can listen and help you feel better.
Ask your doctor to help you find a counsellor.
What you can do
Learn about cancer.
Move your body.
Talk to family and friends.
Do things you enjoy like listening to music, cooking or gardening.
Eat healthy food.
Meditate or pray.
