Hearing “You have cancer” is shocking, terrifying, and confusing. You may feel anxious, overwhelmed, afraid, or angry, and your feelings may change by the moment. No matter how you’re feeling, know that your feelings are normal and you have a right to feel any emotion that comes up and manage it in the way that feels right for you.
To start coping with your emotions, you can try everything or nothing, including talking or journaling about your feelings, finding ways to relax like meditation, being as active as your body will allow, or leaning into hobbies and activities that bring you joy. Remember – cancer is not your fault, you don’t have to be upbeat or positive if you’re not feeling that way, and it’s 100% okay to set boundaries while you process your diagnosis.
