A cancer diagnosis of a loved one presents many challenges, both for the person coping with cancer and for his or her caregivers. There are many ways to help and support a loved one going through this difficult time. Read below for some helpful tips from CancerCare.org.
- Communicate with loved ones: Be open and listen to your loved one’s feelings. The more open you are, the more comfortable your loved one will feel about asking for help.
- Ask how you can help with medical matters: Offering to run errands like picking up prescriptions or bringing a loved one to appointments can help to relieve their stress and show them support in a productive way.
- Join a support group: Sharing your feelings with other caregivers can help you to feel connected to those who can relate to your experience.
Designating yourself as a caregiver is a big responsibility and the role you take on can change throughout the treatment process. By staying mindful and positive, your encouragement can greatly contribute to the cancer journey of your friend or family member.
To learn more tips for caregivers, visit www.CancerCare.org. You can also visit our Support Resources page for additional information.
This is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your health care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.