Communicating With Others After a Cancer Diagnosis

 Communicating With Others After a Cancer Diagnosis 

A question people with cancer often ask is, “How do I talk to others about my diagnosis?” There may be a number of people to inform such as a spouse, children, other relatives, close friends, acquaintances and co-workers. Who you tell and the information you provide depends on you and your comfort level. Do not feel like you have to discuss your cancer with everyone.

One suggestion to decrease the number of incoming and outgoing phone calls is to ask a few people to be responsible to call others. Decide who you want to tell about your diagnosis and make a list. You may want to assign a “team leader” or even multiple leaders to communicate information for you.

Websites are available to update your family and friends regarding your progress. Also, your family and friends can send their wishes and thoughts to you. One such website provided by UT Medical Center is CarePages – FREE, private and completely secure personal webpages that help family and friends stay in touch. Patients can easily post their conditions, can update everyone at the same time, receive messages from friends and family and more!

Find someone you can talk to about your emotions and how you are really doing. Even though there may be times you do not want people to know the problems and concerns you might be experiencing, it will help to have one person you can talk to about everything.

Journaling and art are other good ways to express your thoughts and feelings.

More Information To learn more about communicating, contact your social worker or visit the following websites. American Cancer Society  National Cancer Institute

People will want to help, so do not feel like you have to do everything alone. Allow people to bring meals, pick up your children, run errands or clean your house. Your team leaders may be able to coordinate tasks with volunteers while you are receiving treatment.

If you need further assistance or have any questions about communicating with others, please feel free to contact me at 865.305.6154 or by email at tagreen@utmck.edu. I am always available to counsel and talk with patients and families.

 

Sincerely,
Teri Green, LCSW
Oncology Social Worker
Cancer Institute
865.305.6154