Talking about cancer isn't easy. It's a complicated disease and the diagnosis can be emotionally overwhelming. But many cancer survivors find that if you are willing to talk about your disease and your feelings, you'll have an easier time coping. And you will do better in treatment and recovery. Talking about a fear or a worry often prevents it from growing larger in your mind and people around you will find it easier to give you comfort and support.

Sometimes, you might find it easier to speak first to someone outside your family or circel of close friends. Talk with your doctor or nurse or find out if your medical center has counselors you can talk to and who can give you some advice on how to talk about your cancer with others.

Keep in mind:

• You should expect varying reactions from people close to you. Typical reactions are generally anger, hurt, confusion and withdrawal. If someone close to you needs time alone to think about what you have just said, give him or her space. You should also be prepared to answer questions. Honesty and openness are important.
  
• Experts suggest taking a spouse, close friend or family member with you during your initial visit to the doctor. Having someone with you during the first stages of diagnosis can be helpful for a variety of reasons. First, he or she will act as a support system for you when you are faced with bad news. Having a supportive person by your side as you are told your diagnosis may ease feelings of depression and help you keep a positive attitude.
  
  Also, that person will be by your side as the doctor explains the cancer. In your initial appointment you may not be able to fully comprehend what the doctor is telling you. Your loved one will be able to take in the information and make sure the doctor covers all the bases. If necessary, that person will also be able to relay the information to others if you don't feel comfortable doing so. Details concerning diagnosis and treatment may be hard for you to take so having someone else there could ease your burden.

• If you choose to be alone upon diagnosis, telling other people is an important part of accepting your diagnosis. The most important thing for you to do before telling anyone about your cancer is to adjust to your diagnosis. If you are not comfortable it will be difficult to be completely honest and encouraging when telling other people.

Cancer is hard to deal with all alone. So don't. Although talking about your cancer can be hard at first, most people find that talking and sharing their thoughts and feelings helps them deal with their cancer.

Here are some additional helpful resources to assist you in determining how to talk to others about your diagnosis:

National Cancer Institute:

• Sharing Your Feelings About Cancer

American Cancer Society:

• Breaking the News About Your Diagnosis

American Cancer Society:

• How Do I Talk to People About My Diagnosis?

American Cancer Society:

• Communicating with Friends and Relatives About Your Cancer

American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO):

• Talking to Your Spouse or Partner