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Concerns about the psychological impact on the family

Family can be an important source of support and strength for people with lived experience of cancer. They can provide support every step of the way. But this can cause worry for them. They can experience many of the psychological and emotional challenges that someone living with cancer faces including:

  • Worry, fear, anxiety and sadness
  • Financial concerns
  • Concern over changed relationships
  • Changed plans for the future, including plans for having a family
  • Loneliness
  • A changed sense of role and identity
Concerns about the psychological impact on the family

These problems can be made worse if the family member feels they have to put their needs to one side to support the person living with cancer. The impact of cancer on loved ones can, in turn, be a source of stress and worry for the person living with cancer. There are resources available for family members, including:

Talking to children and young adults about cancer can be a particular concern for people diagnosed with cancer. Information about this and what support is available can be found here.