Friends and family

Family and friends are a source of great emotional and practical support during the time of your diagnosis and treatment for cancer. You can choose how much of this to take on board, but you may find accepting the love and help offered by family and friends makes a real difference to how you cope while living with cancer.

Family and friends are a source of great emotional and practical support

Often, however, family and friends struggle to cope themselves. They may feel lost when trying to help, despite really wanting to be there for you. Providing practical support with everyday tasks sometimes helps them feel they are doing something positive for you. It may also allow you time and energy to process your thoughts and feelings, and to cope better physically during cancer treatment.

If you feel able to discuss your feelings with someone close to you, it may help both of you. If you can't or don't want to, then there are many other sources of help and support available including your care team. We have also included a page on this website to help you find where to get support.