EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT

Adjusting to a diagnosis of cancer can be stressful. The diagnosis and treatment will change your life. Routines and relationships will be interrupted. This is normal. As with any change, we all react differently because the experience is very personal. Most of us will experience some distress.

Sometimes getting information is all you need to help regain balance in your life. That is why we have provided you with resources you can turn to.

But sometimes you need more than information, because having cancer is also a very emotional experience.

Seeking support from family and friends can be helpful, talking with your clergy may help. Some people with cancer find it helpful to talk with others who have had a similar experience. Through the Scott Cares Initiative (founded by Scott Hamilton), there is a mentoring program called "The Fourth Angel". The coordinator will match you with a person who has had cancer and has similar circumstances.

There are also professionals who are trained to deal especially with the emotional and psychological strains associated with having been diagnosed with cancer, these include social workers, psychiatrists and psychologists. They are available for individual, family or group counseling.

Talk with your doctor, nurse or social worker if you think this might be a helpful resource for you. The social worker will help find help that's convenient and, often, covered by your insurance.

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