Implications of diagnosis
A diagnosis of cancer often provokes intense feelings, such as loss of control, fear, anger, guilt, desperation, depression, anxiety and loneliness - it is hard for anyone to predict how someone might react in this situation. This section discusses those emotions, and suggests ways in which they can be worked through.
Some people worry about how they might look, that they might break down, and they think it will be easier to contain their feelings if they go to hear about the test results on their own. They may also be anxious to shield their partner, friend or relative from the shock of seeing them receive a cancer diagnosis.
Taking someone with you
Most people find it difficult, however, to take in what’s being said at the point of diagnosis. So it can help to take someone with you. They can listen first hand to what is being said, and help to fill in any gaps in your recollection afterwards. In addition, when you have had a chance for everything to sink in, you will be able to discuss it with someone.
What the diagnosis feels like
Even people who suspect that they have cancer can be very shocked on actually hearing it confirmed. Shock is a kind of emergency self protection. It numbs the emotions and prevents people fully taking in the consequences of what is happening to them, so they can continue to function even in very stressful situations.
People sometimes look for reasons why the diagnosis might be mistaken or wrong. This ‘denial’ of what has happened can also be a natural reaction to being confronted with any bad news. It creates a safe ‘space’ where you have time to adjust.
Pretending all is well
Initially, some people find that they cope better by trying to ignore the fact that they have cancer, carrying on with their lives as though nothing has happened. This is an approach that men, in particular, may fall into. Some people may rely on work to help them through this difficult time and find their daily routine comforting.
Given time, most people come to acknowledge the cancer diagnosis. This can be a particularly hard time. They may need help from the people closest to them, from doctors, or from someone who has been trained to counsel people with cancer, such as a specialist cancer nurse or counsellor.
Need to talk to someone? We are here to help. Call our Cancerline on freephone 0808 808 2020