Six Tips To Help You Talk About Your Cancer

Written by Dr Shara Cohen on

12th November, 2025

Last revised by: Cancer Care Parcel

Updated: 12th November, 2025

Estimated Reading Time: 1 minute

Table of Contents

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Practising what you want to say can help you keep in control.

Suggestions regarding what you might think about include

*who do you want to tell?*
*do you want to tell people how your treatment is going?
*would you prefer a family member to tell people for you?
*do you want to see people?
*who do you want to see?
*do you want to tell people the type of cancer you have?

Expressing Your Feelings In Your Own Words

2. Remember there are no rights or wrongs when it comes to the language you use to describe how you feel. It can be useful to let others understand what works for you and that each day could be different.

3. Letting people know how you would like them to respond when you’re feeling a bit down can make it easier for you and them. This can also help you get the support you need when you need it.

4. It is a good idea to let your work and any social groups that you belong to know how you want to talk about your cancer.

5. Take the time you need to think about what the next phase of your life might look like. Then, importantly, let your partner and loved ones know.

6. You might find comfort in speaking with other people who are going through the same thing, for example

A group of people at work who are living with or have had cancer.
A charity support group or a network of people with the same type of cancer and/or treatment as you.

Author

Dr Shara Cohen

With over 30 years of experience in medical research, business, and patient advocacy, Shara combines her scientific expertise with deep empathy to create thoughtful care packages and educational resources that address the emotional and physical challenges of cancer.

Before founding Cancer Care Parcel, Shara built a distinguished career as a biomedical scientist and entrepreneur, publishing extensively and leading successful ventures in life sciences communication and community engagement. Recognised with the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her services to cancer patients and women in STEM, she continues to champion awareness, dignity, and compassion in cancer care—ensuring that no one feels forgotten during or after treatment.

We strongly advise you to talk with a health care professional about specific medical conditions and treatments.

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