It can be so difficult to talk about cancer that you may think ‘Why should I bother?’ Why is it worth talking about what’s going on if it makes you and your friends feel uncomfortable? Talking can help you cope with any uncertainties or difficulties that may lie ahead. It can give you support, and can help you have some control over your situation.

How talking can give you support

• Generally, people seem to get comfort from talking to each other. Discussing fears or concerns can put them into perspective.
• Sometimes, you may think you have unanswered questions and you may find it difficult to make up your mind about some issues. You may only realise the answer when you ask someone else the question. In other words, talking about something can often help you to know how you feel about it.
• If the person you are talking to hears your fears or concerns and then simply stays with you, it can help you to feel that your feelings are completely normal. This may reassure you.
• Talking about a fear or a worry often stops it from growing in our minds. Very often when we are thinking about something all the time, the worry just gets bigger and bigger. Once the fear is out in the open and is being discussed, this process often stops.
• Finally, talking about something important or personal produces a bond between people. This is valuable in itself and can make you feel appreciated and supported.