Mental health and cancer

Feeling overwhelmed and out of control is common when you are first diagnosed with cancer. But there is support available and things you can do.

It is common to struggle with your mental health when you have cancer. This can happen at diagnosis, during treatment or once treatment has finished.

Caring for the needs of someone with cancer can be a satisfying and positive thing. It can also be difficult. But there is support available to help you.

After a diagnosis of cancer, you might have a range of feelings including fear, sadness, anxiety and depression. These are normal responses to a stressful life experience.

There is no one type of support that is best for everyone, and different things work for different people at different times. It is OK to stop a type of support if it is not working for you.

Counselling can help you come to terms with your cancer. Understanding what it is and how it can help, can help you decide if it is right for you.

Cancer is a difficult topic to talk about. You might have doubts or concerns which stop you talking to your kids about a cancer diagnosis. It is not easy to decide what or when to tell them.

Your cancer or treatment may mean that you may have trouble joining in celebrations on special occasions.