Cancer is a very serious illness and many people find it difficult to cope with this disease alone. That is why it is important to tell your loved ones about your cancer diagnosis, so they can give you the emotional support and encouragement that you need. Although it is good to open up to people, a lot of cancer patients find it hard to tell their family and friends about their illness. Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do, to make it easier for you to tell someone you have cancer.
Instructions
1. Think about what you want to tell your family and friends in regards to your cancer diagnosis. For example, you may want to share with them when you found out about the cancer, signs and symptoms, treatments and medications you’re taking (or plan to take) and information about your outlook and prognosis.
2. Make a list of people that you want to talk to about your illness. You should try talking to people who you are close to and those who are going to be supportive and understanding. This may include your spouse, children, best friends, parents, siblings and a clergy member (for example a pastor or minister at church). You do not have to tell everyone you know about your diagnosis, so do not feel obligated to inform everyone at work, church, in your neighborhood or social organization about your medical condition.
3. Decide when and where you want to talk to everyone. You may want to talk to everyone individually or in small separate groups. Or perhaps you may choose to speak to your loved ones at one time, like at a family dinner or gathering. Make sure that you choose a location that is private (such as your home) and a location where you are comfortable and away from distractions and noise.
4. Inform others of your cancer diagnosis. Be sure to provide them with as much information as possible about the illness. For example, tell them the specific type of cancer you have and let them know how you developed it (such as getting cervical cancer from the human papillomavirus). Try being honest with your family and friends. If you truly want their support, then you need to trust them and don’t be afraid to open up to them.
5. Discuss your treatment options and let them know your schedule. There are different types of treatment options for cancer patients, such as chemotherapy, surgery, immunotherapy and radiation therapy. Let your family and friends know the type of treatment method or medications you are taking and tell them what your schedule is going to look like over the next few months (such as doctor appointments and treatment sessions).
6. Invite everyone to ask you questions. You should be prepared to answer questions from your family and friends about your cancer diagnosis. They may want to know things such as how long are you going to be in the hospital, how many treatment sessions are you going to need and the cost of the treatments and medications. They may also want to know how you are feeling about your diagnosis.
7. Ask for help if you need it. Many cancer patients find themselves needing extra help with things such as running errands, cleaning, cooking and taking care of the kids. It is okay to ask your family and friends for help while you are taking your cancer treatments and going to your doctor appointments. Your loved ones may even volunteer to help you, so be sure to take them up on their offer and don’t forget to thank them.
8. Reassure your family and friends that you are going to do everything that you can to get better. It is good to remain positive and let everyone know that you are not going to give up. Always remember that if you appear to be down and depressed, this may make them feel the same way too. So, keep your head up and try keeping a smile on your face.
Tags: about your, family friends, your family, your family friends, your cancer, cancer diagnosis, your cancer diagnosis
