Managing emotional well-being

Intense, unfamiliar emotions are a normal part of living with cancer and can change over time.

Common emotions you or your loved ones may experience

• Denial – Feeling numb or unable to accept the diagnosis

• Anger – Frustration or resentment about the situation

• Fear and worry – Concerns about treatment, outcomes or the future

• Stress and anxiety – Feeling overwhelmed or uncertain

• Sadness or depression – Persistent feelings of hopelessness or isolation

• Guilt – Wondering if you could have done something differently

• Gratitude and hope – Finding moments of appreciation and optimism

These feelings are completely normal. If emotions become overwhelming, speaking with your cancer care team, a counselor or a support group can help you manage them in a healthy way.

Recognizing and understanding these feelings can help you cope more effectively.

Denial

At first, you may struggle to believe or accept your diagnosis. This is known as denial.

• Why it happens: It provides time to process the news.

• When it becomes a problem: If it prevents you from seeking treatment.

Most patients work through this phase and are ready to move forward as treatment begins.

Anger

It’s common to feel angry—at the situation, health care providers, loved ones or even a higher power.

• Causes of anger: Fear, frustration, anxiety, helplessness

• How to cope: Find a healthy outlet to express and process your anger, such as talking with someone you trust.

Fear and worry

A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. You may worry about pain or discomfort from treatment, the wellbeing of your family, physical changes due to treatment, or mortality and the future.

• How to cope: Learning more about your diagnosis and treatment can help you feel more in control and ease anxiety.

Stress and anxiety

Cancer and its treatment bring stress and anxiety, which can manifest as physical symptoms such as a racing heartbeat, muscle pain or headaches, nausea or diarrhea, shakiness or dizziness, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and tightness in the throat or chest.

• How to manage stress: Talk to your cancer care team to ensure symptoms aren’t caused by treatment. Consider counseling or stress-management classes. Find healthy coping strategies to prevent stress from controlling your life.

Sadness and depression

Feeling sad is a normal response to illness, but for some, sadness can lead to depression, which can interfere with daily life and treatment.

• Signs of depression (lasting more than two weeks): Persistent sadness, emotional numbness, hopelessness, mood swings, guilt, difficulty concentrating, increased stress, loss of interest in hobbies, suicidal thoughts

• Physical symptoms of depression: Unintended weight changes, sleep problems, chronic fatigue, headaches, aches and pain

• How to get help: Speak with your oncologist if you recognize signs of depression. Treatment is available, including counseling and medication.

Guilt

Guilt can arise from needing help from loved ones, envying others in good health or regret over past lifestyle choices.

• How to cope: Expressing these feelings to a counselor or support group can be beneficial.

Gratitude and hope

For some, cancer serves as a wake-up call, leading to a newfound appreciation for life, a desire to try new experiences and strengthening relationships.

• Ways to cultivate gratitude and hope: Stick to a routine with structured activities, focus on gratitude, spend time in nature, reflect on spiritual beliefs, engage in hobbies or social activities, connect with loved ones.

Embracing joy—even in small moments—can help you cope more effectively during your cancer journey.