How do I talk about this experience with my loved ones?

Ask a Question

Q: How do I talk about this experience with my loved ones? 

A: Much of your journey through cancer may be inward, yet it’s important to share your thoughts and feelings, hopes and fears, victories, setbacks, and vulnerabilities with those closest to you. Likewise, those who love you will need to share their emotions and concerns with you. Use quiet moments, when you’re not pressed for time, to talk about these things. Don’t try to cover everything at once. 

Remember that you and your loved ones may have very different reactions to what’s happening and what’s being discussed, based on individual personalities, family roles, and more. To communicate well, stay open to listening and responding to your loved ones’ perspectives. This may be hard to do at a time when you need, and deserve, a great deal of understanding support yourself. Yet staying open to conversation and listening  will help build a healthy emotional environment for you and your close circle. This is often called the “presence of being.”

Although your primary focus right now is on your cancer, it’s also important to spend time as you normally would with your family and friends. It’s especially good to take time to have fun with those, such as a spouse, partner, or children, who are most involved in helping you with your treatment experience and care. 
--Kathy Newman, RN, BSN

Cancer survivors discuss the support of loved ones and more in The Cancer Talk Show: Emotional and Spiritual Issues.