Talking about it
It might seem that no one else understands how you feel, and some people tell us they feel isolated and alone. Some people find it helps to talk about their cancer and how they are feeling.
Family and friends can be a fantastic support. But sometimes people just don’t know what to say, or you may not want to talk to family and friends at all. You may worry that your family will find talking about it too upsetting. But talking openly about your feelings or wishes can help your family and friends support you. Macmillan Cancer Support have information about talking about cancer.
You can also talk to your medical team. You will be given a main contact, who will usually be a specialist nurse. They can provide emotional support as well as medical care. Talk to your nurse about how you’re feeling. Being open with them will help them support you better.
Talk to others affected by cancer
You might find it helps to talk to others affected by pancreatic cancer, who can understand what you are going through.
Cancer centres such as Maggie’s centres or Macmillan information and support centres provide emotional support. They can also help with other things, such as dealing with the effects of treatment, and financial worries. Ask your nurse about local cancer centres.
Counselling
Counselling or ‘talking therapy’ involves talking to a trained professional about your thoughts and feelings. It may help you work through your feelings and find ways of coming to terms with things. There are different ways to get counselling.
You can also ask to be referred for psychological support. Psychological support services help people with psychological (emotional) problems. You might be offered different types of support from health professionals such as counsellors, clinical psychologists, psychiatrists or social workers. Your family can also get support.
