Understandably, a significant number of people with cancer, their carers or families, experience anxiety or depression at some time during their cancer journey.

There are a range of options and opportunities you can explore to reach for support during this challenging time. People often value one-on-one support through counselling via social workers, psychologists or counsellors. This may be accessible through your treating hospital.

When considering your emotional needs, also consider the needs of your carer and family. Cancer treatment can equally affect these important people. Above all, become aware of the signs of distress and seek help early in your treatment if things are becoming challenging.

Other related and useful sections in this directory:

• in the Personal Support category you will find listings of Cancer Support Groups and Phone Support Lines which can be of help at such times,
• in the Financial subcategory you will find information about funding assistance.

• Counselling
• Genetic Counselling
• Psychology
• Retreats

Counselling

Go to TopGo to the Directory

Genetic Counselling

About five to 10 per cent of cancers are hereditary. The link is strongest for breast, bowel and stomach cancers.

In some cases people touched by cancer would like to seek genetic testing. There are many important medical, ethical, social and legal issues to be considered before having genetic testing. These can all be discussed with a genetic counsellor [a scientist specially trained to explain inherited conditions and genetic testing] who will discuss limitations as well as potential benefits. This Genetic Counselling continues beyond any actual testing .

There are eligibility criteria for visiting a Genetic Counsellor, discuss this with your GP or Specialist Cancer Nurse.

For further information on genetic links in cancer refer to Better Health Channel's Cancer and Hereditary

Go to TopGo to the Directory

Psychology

People dealing with cancer may experience problems such as clinical anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This may require specialised psychological treatment.

Additionally, living with cancer can pose specific problems that have a strong psychological impact, including body image and sexuality problems, interpersonal difficulties, and anxiety, fear or concerns related to survival and recurrence.

The most appropriate psychological therapy will depend on the patient, on the issues at hand and the training and skills of the therapist.

Psychological therapies may be delivered individually, or via a group or family model and may be face-to-face or remote.

While some people will be more comfortable with the privacy of individual counselling, others will benefit from group counselling where they can gain from sharing the commonality of their experience.

New programs provide your GP with additional referral options that provide free counselling through a regional network of professional psychologists. You will need a referral from your GP to access this free service.

Go to TopGo to the Directory

Retreats

When touched by cancer, people often need to remove themselves from their everyday life and seek inner support in a different environment. There are Retreats available, some specifically for people touched by cancer.

Go to TopGo to the Directory