People cope with cancer in different ways. You may find it helpful to:

• Learn as much as you can about your cancer type and treatment. This can help you feel more in control.
• Express your feelings. Some people find that expressing emotions such as fear and anger helps them to cope. There are many ways to express feelings, such as keeping a journal, drawing or painting.
• Accept help from family and friends. They often want to help, but may need ideas from you about what would be useful.
• Talk to your doctor or the other health professionals looking after you about how you feel.
• Talk with other people who have cancer, or who had it in the past. This can help you understand what to expect from cancer and treatment.
• Many people also find hope and comfort in spiritual or religious beliefs.

There are also professionals and organisations who help people cope with cancer:

• The Cancer Council Information and Support line, 13 11 20, has specially trained staff available to offer support.
• You can also ask to see a counsellor or psychologist at your cancer treatment clinic, or through your general practitioner.