Cancerbackup: Your emotions

Skip the page content navigation if you do not require links to content sections within this page.

Page Content Navigation

Skip the main banner if you do not want to read it as the next section.


Page Banner

Want to speak to a specialist cancer nurse? Call free on 0808 800 1234



The best cancer information for everyone.
Cancerbackup has merged with Macmillan. Together we can provide a wealth of high quality information about cancer.


Skip the main content if you do not want to read it as the next section.


Your emotions and radiotherapy

'During my radiotherapy I became very emotional. I would start crying for no reason.'

This is how one woman felt. Another described herself as being 'very weepy', not during the treatment but a couple of weeks afterwards. These emotions are shared by many people who have radiotherapy, or any treatment for cancer. It can be very difficult to try to come to terms not only with the illness itself but also with the treatments and possible side effects.

Many people who have radiotherapy will already have had some cancer treatment; for others this may be the beginning of a long treatment period. Radiotherapy can bring about physical changes which are very distressing, such as the menopause or hair loss.

We all have our own ways of coping with difficulties. Some people have a close network of family and friends who give emotional support. Others would rather seek help from people who are not involved in their illness. Either way it is important to know that support is available if you need it. You can ask at your treatment hospital if help is available locally.

You will also find useful advice in the following sections:

The nurses at our cancer support service can give you information on all aspects of cancer and its treatment, and on the practical and emotional problems of living with the illness. Some people find it helpful to talk through their feelings with a trained counsellor.


Content last reviewed: 01 February 2009
Page last modified: 09 June 2009

Get support

Look for other people in the same situation on our What Now? community - read their blogs or talk to them in our chat rooms.

Find out about other ways to get support on the main Macmillan website.