Coping and Dealing with a Cancer Diagnosis

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Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be scary and overwhelming for you and your loved ones. No matter how you’re feeling, remember you’re not alone – support is always available to help you navigate this time.

This article covers:

 

  • Some common emotions you may experience after a cancer diagnosis
  • Tips for communicating about your illness with friends and family
  • Coping strategies and tools to support you emotionally as you navigate your diagnosis and treatment
  • Practical ways to protect your physical and mental health throughout this time.

Expressing emotions and being honest with yourself

Everyone responds differently when they’re first diagnosed with cancer. Any emotions, thoughts and reactions you experience during this time are normal and understandable.1 You may feel many emotions at one time, with most people experiencing a combination of fear, anger, helplessness, uncertainty, sadness, denial, guilt and frustration.1

 

Take the time to process however you’re feeling at your own pace and avoid expecting yourself to move on quickly.2

 

If you’re initially distressed and consumed by strong emotions, this may interfere with your ability to properly process the information you’re receiving, or make important decisions you’re presented with.2,3 At the time of diagnosis, you’re often expected to make big decisions about your treatment options and future plans, which can be difficult to do rationally if your judgement is clouded by emotion.2

 

If you’re feeling this way, talk to your doctor or healthcare team. They can answer any questions you have and share their knowledge about your diagnosis, treatment and recovery to help you make more informed, considered decisions.1 With many cancer treatments constantly improving, learning more about your illness and treatment plan may provide some calm and relief from your initial panic.1-3

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How a cancer diagnosis affects your life

Cancer impacts all areas of your life, and it can take some time to adjust to your new reality.2 You may also need to adapt to the impacts of your illness on your loved ones.

 

While cancer patients who channel more optimism and hope about their future have been shown to better adapt to their new circumstances, it’s equally important to avoid focusing only on positivity.4 Fear, uncertainty and sadness are warranted and appropriate responses to your diagnosis too,4 so ensure you’re making space for all emotions – the good and the “bad” – so you can properly process your diagnosis and how you’re feeling about it.2

 

Some people respond to a cancer diagnosis with emotional numbness, meaning they don’t immediately react or display emotion.4 It can feel too confronting or overwhelming to accept this information and the potential changes it will mean for your life, so it’s an understandable reaction. You may need time to sit with the meaning and implications of your diagnosis before you’re able to understand how you feel about it.4 If you’re struggling to process your illness, or you’re worried you’re stuck in a state of numbness, strategies like deep breathing, journalling and talking to loved ones may help you identify your true feelings and understand how to cope with them.1,3,4

 

There are several stages of emotional adjustment you may need to navigate through after receiving a cancer diagnosis. These won’t necessarily occur in order, and you may find yourself regressing or switching back and forth between several stages:

SHOCK

 

This can look like disbelief, avoidance, denial, numbness or distress.5 You may avoid thinking about your diagnosis, pretend it’s not happening or even put off sharing the information with those close to you to convince yourself it’s “not real”.5

PROCESSING

 

During this phase, you’re likely to experience a vast and fluctuating range of emotions. Remember you are strong enough to work through any emotions that come up.5 Emotions are temporary, so notice and process them without judgement, then move past them when you’re ready.5,6

ACCEPTANCE

 

This doesn’t mean your grief, fear and sadness suddenly vanish. Instead, your emotions may become less consuming and overwhelming as you come to terms with your diagnosis.2,5,6 You’ll inevitably still have good and bad days, and you can recognise there will be challenges ahead – but there will be positives amongst them too.2,5

Find the right people to support you

Everyone responds differently when they’re first diagnosed with cancer. Any emotions, thoughts and reactions you experience during this time are normal and understandable.1 You may feel many emotions at one time, with most people experiencing a combination of fear, anger, helplessness, uncertainty, sadness, denial, guilt and frustration.1

 

Take the time to process however you’re feeling at your own pace and avoid expecting yourself to move on quickly.2

 

If you’re initially distressed and consumed by strong emotions, this may interfere with your ability to properly process the information you’re receiving, or make important decisions you’re presented with.2,3 At the time of diagnosis, you’re often expected to make big decisions about your treatment options and future plans, which can be difficult to do rationally if your judgement is clouded by emotion.2

 

If you’re feeling this way, talk to your doctor or healthcare team. They can answer any questions you have and share their knowledge about your diagnosis, treatment and recovery to help you make more informed, considered decisions.1 With many cancer treatments constantly improving, learning more about your illness and treatment plan may provide some calm and relief from your initial panic.1-3

 

Developing a strong support system is essential after receiving a cancer diagnosis. Some people feel alone with their illness, or don’t want to burden those close to them by talking about their struggles, but you never have to cope by yourself.1,3,4 Having a solid support network is a crucial element of looking after your mental and emotional health, as well as your physical health. Here are some places and people you can seek support from.

While you may worry about upsetting them, your close family and friends will genuinely want to help you in this difficult time as much as they can.1,2 If you’re hesitant to reach out, ask if they have the emotional capacity to receive difficult news and feelings before launching into details. If they do, share your honest thoughts and feelings, and ask for practical or emotional support with things you’d find most useful and beneficial – whether that’s providing an ear to listen to you, driving you to and from appointments, helping out with cooking or household tasks, or spending time with you unrelated to your diagnosis for some relief and joy.1,3-5

Online or in-person support groups are a fantastic way to help you feel less isolated and alone with your cancer diagnosis.3,7 You can connect with other people with cancer (or recovered cancer survivors) to share advice, insights and your feelings with others going through similar experiences.7

 

Many people find they’re able to be more open and honest in these settings, as you don’t need to protect close friends and family from the reality of your illness. Others in the group may relate to your hopes and fears about the future or have been through (or are currently undergoing) a similar diagnosis and treatment plan to yours.7 This can be really reassuring and relieving.7 Ask your healthcare team or check out Cancer Council’s directory to get in touch with relevant cancer support groups online or in your area.

Most people with cancer require support from a range of healthcare professionals throughout the cancer journey. Each practitioner plays an individual and important role in your care.8

 

Have open, honest conversations with your healthcare team, asking questions and seeking clarity whenever you need.8 Remember, your team is there for you, so speak up about anything you need or are worried about.

 

Healthcare professionals who can offer you support during this time include:

 

  • Oncology social workers: They can offer emotional support as well as practical and financial assistance, and direct you to access further support as needed.8
  • Counselors: While less certified than psychologists, counsellors can provide a safe space for you to discuss your feelings during this time. They may also offer ideas and suggestions to help you deal with challenges you’re facing.8
  • Psychologists: Psychologists provide evidence-based long-term strategies to support your mental wellbeing, which can help you far into the future.8

 

Various other healthcare professionals including your general practitioner, cancer care team and psychiatrists may also play a role in supporting you during your battle against cancer.8 There are many organisations available to help you navigate the emotional, physical, practical and financial implications of your diagnosis.

Connecting with other cancer survivors or patients can be a powerful source of support and comfort during your own journey.9 Hearing people’s stories may provide new perspectives and hope9 – though it’s important to remember your own experiences will be different to anyone else’s.

 

While your loved ones will want to help you, they may not fully understand the extent of the emotional or physical challenges you’re facing. Feeling like you belong within a community of cancer warriors and survivors who can relate may reassure you that you’re never alone during this unfamiliar experience.9

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How to tell a family member about your diagnosis

Telling family members and loved ones about your cancer diagnosis can be difficult. You may feel uncomfortable sharing the truth, concerned about your family’s reaction, scared of upsetting or worrying your loved ones, or afraid the diagnosis will become more “real” once others know about it too.1

 

While you never have to share with people if you don’t want to or feel ready, it can be really helpful to have those close to you understand what you’re navigating.1,3,4 It allows them to support you and makes you feel less alone.

 

Here are some practical strategies to help you break the news to the people in your life.

 

  • How you approach the conversation should depend on who you’re sharing with.1 For example, you’d tell family or friends your news very differently to how you’d broach the topic with an employer.1 Your loved ones are likely to respond with greater emotion, fear and concern, and may want to be involved and support you however they can. Whereas you might have a more formal, practical conversation with an employer, outlining the basic details of your condition and whatever you need from your workplace to support you during this time.
  • Go slowly. You don’t have to tell everyone right away. Resist feeling pressured or obligated to share.1 Once you’ve told a few close people and you’re adequately supported, you can be more selective about who else you tell, and at what time.
  • Establish boundaries. You don’t need to share every detail of your diagnosis at any stage.1 Some people prefer to share a few details at a time, finding it easier to open up gradually, while others choose to keep details to a minimum throughout their cancer battle. Take things at your own pace.
    If you’re feeling uneasy or uncomfortable with someone’s questions or responses, bring the conversation to a close.1 Saying, “That’s all I’d like to share for now, thanks for understanding,” or, “I feel like I’ve shared as much as I’m capable of for today. Maybe we can revisit another time,” is a compassionate and warm way of setting a boundary, without requiring confrontation.
  • Find a quiet time and place. Choose somewhere away from distractions where you feel calm and comfortable, and where your loved one can express their thoughts or emotions without feeling they need to “rein it in” or hide their distress.1,4
  • Get ready for questions. They will come – sometimes fast. Answer with as much detail as you choose, and remember they’re coming from a place of concern, love and care. However, that doesn’t mean you have to answer every question that comes your way!1,3,4 Only share as much information as you feel comfortable with.
  • Ask for help. Tell people what kind of support would be most beneficial during your cancer journey.1,3,6-8 Those close to you will likely want to be involved however they can, so take them up on their offer! Tell them specifically how they can help you through this time – whether it’s in practical or emotional ways. This gives your loved ones a sense of purpose and control, while also taking something off your own plate. You can and should accept help – you don’t have to navigate this illness alone.8
  • Your loved ones may need time to adjust to your diagnosis too.1,3,8 Just as you experienced a wide range of emotions after receiving the news, your family and friends might also feel scared, upset, uncertain and concerned. They’ll learn how to cope over time, but don’t take it personally if their initial response isn’t what you’d hoped for.

 

If your family members are struggling to process or talk about your diagnosis, encourage them to speak to a psychologist or counsellor.1 You can also bring them along to an appointment with your doctor or healthcare team, giving them the chance to ask questions, understand your condition, and accept the reality of your illness.1

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How do I tell my children about my cancer treatment?

If you have children, you may feel hesitant about sharing your diagnosis with them. People are often unsure whether children will fully understand their illness, or worry about scaring them.10 However, children can normally sense something is wrong – even if they may not know exactly what it is.1,10 For many children, the unease and uncertainty of not knowing can be harder to cope with than the truth.10 By sharing your diagnosis, you give them the chance to ask questions, express their feelings, and be involved in your cancer journey.10

 

With that said, there are a few things to consider when telling your children about your cancer:

 

  • The way you explain your illness and the amount of detail you share with your kids will depend on their age and level of understanding.1 Keep things simple and factual and avoid jumping to worst-case scenarios.1,10 Equally, don’t feel as though you must appear entirely positive and happy – it’s okay for your children to recognise you’re worried and upset. Crying or showing you’re sad communicates that it’s okay and safe for your kids to express their feelings too.10
  • Reassure your children that your condition isn’t anyone’s fault – not theirs, and not yours.1 You may need to regularly remind them that they’ve not done anything wrong, as many children experience guilt for quite some time after receiving similar news.10
  • If you feel you can’t have this conversation with your kids yourself, ask for help from a relative or doctor.1,10
  • Prepare for the conversation beforehand. There are resources and support available online to help you, or you can talk to a psychologist or healthcare professional to help you explain the situation in a way your kids will understand.10 This also ensures you’re looking after yourself. Telling your children about your diagnosis can be a challenging, taxing part of your cancer journey, so you might need some extra support as you do so.10
  • Take your time. You don’t have to share every detail at once with your kids. Start with the basic details and decide when they’re ready to know more later on.10
  • If you don’t know the answer to a question, “I don’t know” is a perfectly valid response.10 Don’t make up answers or provide false reassurances when you’re unsure yourself. If your children are dissatisfied with this response, tell them you’ll look into their questions and get back to them later – after you’ve had time to do your research, or think carefully about how you want to respond.10
  • Explain how your diagnosis might affect your children’s daily lives or routines.10 Encourage them to ask questions, so you know whether they understand the information you’ve given them. Ask how they’re feeling or if they’re worried about anything.10
  • Remind your children they’ll be loved and looked after, no matter what.10 Have the conversation at their level (try sitting on the floor together or similar) and show affection if you’re both comfortable, hugging them or gently squeezing their hand throughout and afterwards.10
  • Check in with them often after the conversation, too.10 Don’t just pretend everything is normal and carry on with regular life. They’ll likely come up with new thoughts, feelings and questions all the time, so give them the opportunity to share these with you. Help them recognise they’re “allowed” to acknowledge the reality of your diagnosis, and that talking about it won’t upset you.10
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Facing the reality of your diagnosis and coping strategies for it

While you may initially feel tempted to avoid or ignore your illness, understanding your diagnosis,5,6 the treatment it requires, and what the future may hold can be empowering and useful. The more you know, the more considered your decisions will be, meaning you’re less likely to make choices out of panic, desperation or emotion.1

 

Deal in the facts with your cancer diagnosis

Some people find comfort or reassurance in equipping themselves with as much information, research and knowledge about their condition as possible.1,2,4 Understanding your diagnosis and treatment plan can help you feel more secure about the future.1,2 Ask your healthcare team as many questions as possible and seek out evidence-based, reliable research sources.1,4

 

Prepare in advance for your appointments with your doctor or healthcare team, writing down any questions you have so your concerns can all be addressed.1,10 While it may be tempting to leave the details to your healthcare team, asking the hard questions can help you avoid catastrophising, making assumptions or letting your mind run wild with “worst-case scenarios”.8 This can help you feel more prepared for the future, better understand your options and illness, and avoid the anxiety that often comes with uncertainty.4,8

 

Consider asking your doctor and healthcare team the following questions to start:

  • What stage of cancer do I have?
  • What are my treatment options?
  • What are the side effects I might experience with treatment?
  • How should I prepare for treatment?
  • How can I optimise my quality of life throughout treatment?
  • Are there any lifestyle or dietary changes I need to make?
  • Where can I get additional mental and emotional support during this time?
  • What symptoms can I expect in the future?

 

You can also keep a symptom journal to track any changes in your symptoms and take this to your appointments to discuss with your doctor.8 While you may not notice small day-to-day changes, recording your daily experiences can help identify trends over time. This allows your healthcare team to address any symptoms that are causing you problems and act on anything they’re worried about.

 

While information is power, it does matter where you get your information from!8 As tempting as it can be to type your questions and symptoms into Doctor Google or AI platforms, this is not the way to go. It’s a one-way ticket to panic, fear and confusion, with the “answers” you’re given filled with fear-mongering content with minimal (if any!) fact. Instead, go to reputable sources like peer-reviewed journals, reliable organisations and government bodies for more accurate information.1,4,8

 

You can access resources, education and support from organisations including Cancer Council, Cancer Australia, and you can find further links to support organisations tailored to whatever stage of the cancer journey you’re navigating at Nutricia’s Cancer Hub.

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Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle may help to improve your quality of life as you battle cancer and undergo treatment. Nutrition, exercise and lifestyle strategies can help you manage common side effects of cancer treatment like loss of appetite, nausea and fatigue, and may allow you to feel more like yourself during this time.8

 

Try the following strategies:

Eat smaller meals more frequently to help manage nausea and include plenty of easy-to-digest, high-energy foods like bread, pasta and rice.8,11 Eat a variety of vegetables and fruits, as well as plenty of protein, healthy fats, fibre and whole grains each day.11 If you’re finding it difficult to eat enough due to taste or appetite changes, nausea, mouth sores or other possible side effects, ask your healthcare professional if an oral nutritional supplement (ONS) is appropriate for you. ONS like the Fortisip® range can help you meet your daily nutritional needs when your usual diet is not enough.12

This may help you maintain your muscle mass and strength and support your immune system throughout treatment, and improve your recovery.11,13

 

Learn more about optimising your nutrition during cancer with this guide. 

Drinking plenty of water and fluids can help you manage nausea and support immune function and recovery.8,11 Sip water (or other fluids) slowly and regularly throughout the day.14

Foods rich in nutrients like zinc, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants may help support your immunity,13,14 which is particularly important while your normal immune function is compromised during treatment.11,13,14

 

Learn more about immune-supporting foods to eat during cancer and treatment here.

Gentle exercise may help you maintain muscle mass and support your recovery and mental health during cancer and treatment.8 Research shows exercise can help relieve feelings of anger, stress, anxiety and depression, and improve energy levels and sleep.8 Don’t push yourself too hard, as this can do more harm than good. Instead opt for low-intensity movement like walking, stretching and yoga. Rest is just as essential as exercise, so take it slow, listen to your body and honour whatever it needs.8

Take breaks throughout the day and schedule time for activities that help you relax like reading, listening to music, doing crafts or spending time with loved ones.8 It’s important to enjoy your life outside of cancer and remind yourself you’re more than your diagnosis!

Quality sleep can help prepare your body for the physical and mental burdens of cancer and treatment.8 If you’re struggling to fall or stay asleep due to anxiety, stress or physical side effects like nausea, try introducing gentle exercise into your day. Implementing a consistent nighttime routine and sleep schedule can also indicate to your brain when it’s time to wind down and prepare for rest.8

Coping Toolbox: effectively coping with a cancer diagnosis

A “coping toolbox” is a combination of strategies you can draw upon to help you physically and mentally navigate the ups and downs of your cancer journey. There is no “right” way of coping, and the tools in your own toolbox will be unique to your situation, personality, and previous experiences.15 Having a range of tools to choose from can allow you to feel better equipped, more comfortable, in-control, prepared and supported in any situation.1,15

 

Try adding these strategies to your coping toolbox to support your physical and mental wellbeing:

JOURNALLING

 

Writing out your thoughts without judging or controlling them can help you begin to organise and understand what’s happening internally.1 Only when you create space and awareness to observe the internal dialogue and physical sensations occurring in your mind and body can you question or challenge them as needed.2,15

 

Allowing yourself the time to observe, process and move through your thoughts and emotions can help you develop the strength and resilience you need to navigate cancer and medical treatment.2 Learn to slow down, focus, and identify whether a thought is a feeling or a fact – so you can decide how to respond, instead of reacting reflexively.

BREATHING EXERCISES & GUIDED MEDITATION

 

These practices may relieve stress and anxiety. They can also improve your mood and sleep quality, reducing fatigue and supporting energy levels.1 Breathing and meditation may improve your quality of life as you move through cancer and treatment as they provide physical and emotional care.8

 

These practices again teach you to become less attached to your thoughts and allow difficult feelings to pass by without judging them. Both methods can help you be present, so you’re less inclined to catastrophise or panic whenever you receive new results or information from your healthcare team, or when you’re worried about your condition.15

GET CREATIVE

 

Creative outlets and activities like painting, playing (or listening to) music, knitting and craft can also help you express or identify how you’re feeling.1 You may or may not want to share your art and expression with those close to you to help you broach difficult topics, but if you find journalling and other approaches feel unnatural, jarring or overwhelming, this can be a great alternative.1,8,15 It can help you reconnect to yourself and your passions and remind you that you are so much more than your diagnosis!

SEEK PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT

 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by feelings of stress, anxiety or depression, speak to a psychologist if possible.1,2,4,15 These emotions are completely understandable, but you do need to address them with the help of a highly qualified professional. This may allow you to feel more in-control, supported and capable of navigating whatever challenges the future holds, and can have a huge impact on your quality of life and your mental wellbeing during this challenging time.1,15 If you’re unsure where to look for professional help, ask your doctor or team to recommend a reliable psychologist for your circumstances and needs.1

Life after a cancer diagnosis: what comes next?

It can feel like life comes to a standstill after receiving a cancer diagnosis. But there are decisions to be made, arrangements to organise, and treatment or management strategies to pursue.

 

While everyone’s cancer journey will be different, there are some common elements you can expect:

 

  • Ongoing checkups and monitoring. You’ll be in regular contact with your doctor and healthcare team for checkups, tests and assessments. While this may initially feel overwhelming, it’s necessary to ensure your condition is well managed, your treatment plan is working as intended, and any necessary changes to the plan are actioned as quickly as possible. Get comfortable with your team, ask any questions that arise, and let them know how you’re feeling along the way.
  • Managing side effects: While you may experience different side effects depending on the type of treatment or drugs you’re given and the stage and type of cancer you have, healthy diet and lifestyle strategies can help you manage these and reduce their impact on your daily life.16
    Learn more about how to manage treatment side effects here.
    While most side effects tend to resolve within weeks or months of finishing treatment, some can be longer lasting and may require ongoing treatment with the support of your healthcare team.17 
  • Emotional adjustments. While you’re battling cancer and undergoing treatment you’re always in “motion”, actively doing everything possible to support your recovery. When you finish treatment, as a survivor or someone with chronic cancer, it can feel jarring to stop “moving”.8 This is a new part of your journey which requires some processing and acceptance, and it’s common to need emotional support during this time.8
  • You’re still you! While cancer is undoubtedly life-changing, it doesn’t define your entire identity. You aren’t just a cancer patient or survivor. Keep this in mind throughout your entire journey, so you don’t feel you’ve lost your identity when you finish your treatment. Make time for things that bring you joy and make you feel good during this period, whatever that means for you.8 Stay hopeful and positive, while still making space for less optimistic emotions too, focusing on one step (or day) at a time.1,8 Reach out to loved ones or support groups and services and remember you’re never alone in your battle, and it’s important to ask for help when you need it.7,8

 

The cancer journey isn’t over when you finish treatment. It can be challenging to return to “normal” life and routines after everything you’ve been through.8 You may find yourself feeling almost abandoned by your healthcare team, unsure how to return to regular work and schedules, or worrying that every tiny ache or niggle indicates your illness is back. Your friends and family can also take a moment to readjust, so give them time if they’re still treating you with concern or worry.8

 

Side effects can take a while to resolve, so be patient and look after yourself as best as you can. Maintain good nutrition and gentle movement and give your body the care it needs to recover.16

 

If you’re struggling to accept your diagnosis or treatment, you’re confused or overwhelmed by your emotions, or you’re feeling lost without your treatment schedule and care team around you, reach out to a mental health professional or support service to get the care you need and deserve during this transition.8 Whether you connect with a psychologist, cancer support group, or your loved ones, it’s important to express all your feelings, and take the time you need to process and adjust to your new “normal”.8 While your treatment may be over, you have just experienced a really challenging time. Give yourself compassion and space to discover who you are away from your illness, and what you want your new “normal” to look like.8

Fortisip® is a food for special medical purposes and must be used under medical supervision.

 

This is provided for informational purposes only. It does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for tailored advice.

 

References

1 – Cancer Council Australia. Coping with a cancer diagnosis [Internet]. Australia: Cancer Council Australia; [cited 2025 May 01]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/after-a-diagnosis/coping-with-a-cancer-diagnosis

 

2 – Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. Coping in the aftermath of a a cancer diagnosis [Internet]. Seattle USA: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; 2024 [cited 2025 May 02]. Available from: https://www.fredhutch.org/en/news/center-news/2024/05/10-tips-coping-cancer-diagnosis-megan-shen.html

 

3 – Mazzocco K, et al. The role of emotions in cancer patients’ decision-making. E Cancer Med Sci. 2019;13:914. 

 

4 – Stanford Medicine. Coping with cancer [Internet]. Stanford USA: Stanford University School of Medicine; [cited 2025 May 04]. Available from: https://med.stanford.edu/survivingcancer/coping-with-cancer/coping-with-cancer.html  

 

5 – Lung Foundation Australia. Processing your diagnosis through the stages of grief [Internet]. Australia: Lung Foundation Australia; 2025 [cited 2025 May 01]. Available from: https://lungfoundation.com.au/blog/processing-your-diagnosis-through-the-stages-of-grief/

 

 6 – University of Rochester Medical Center. Grief and cancer [Internet]. Rochester USA: University of Rochester Medical Center; [cited 2025 May 05]. Available from: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content?contenttypeid=85&contentid=p07198

 

7 – Cancer Council Australia. Support groups [Internet]. Australia: Cancer Council Australia; [cited 2025 May 01]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org.au/support-and-services/support-groups

 

8 – Cancer Council Australia. Emotions and cancer [Internet]. Australia: Cancer Council Australia; 2024 [cited 2025 May 01]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org.au/assets/pdf/emotions-and-cancer-booklet  

 

9 – Cancer Council Australia. How connecting with others can support you through your cancer experience [Internet]. Australia: Cancer Council Australia; 2021 [cited 2025 May 03]. Available from: https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/news/how-connecting-with-others-can-support-you-through-your-cancer-experience/

 

10 – Cancer Research UK. Talking to children about cancer [Internet]. London UK: Cancer Research UK; 2022 [cited 2025 May 01]. Available from: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/coping/mental-health-cancer/talking-children

 

11 – Cancer Council NSW. The importance of eating well [Internet]. Sydney: Cancer Council NSW; 2025 [cited 2025 May 01]. Available from: https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/cancer-information/living-well/nutrition-and-cancer/why-eat-well/

 

12 – Watterson C, et al. Evidence based practice guidelines for the nutritional management of malnutrition in adult patients across the continuum of care. Nutr Diet. 2009;66:S1–34. 

 

13 – Johns Hopkins Medicine. Cancer diet: foods to add and avoid during cancer treatment [Internet]. Maryland USA: Johns Hopkins Medicine; [cited 2025 May 03]. Available from: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/cancer/cancer-diet-foods-to-add-and-avoid-during-cancer-treatment

 

14 – Cancer Council Australia. Nutrition for People Living with Cancer [Internet]. Sydney (AU): Cancer Council Australia; 2025 [cited 2025 May 02]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org.au/assets/pdf/nutrition-and-cancer-booklet

 

15 – Cancer Council Victoria. Your coping toolbox [Internet]. Melbourne: Cancer Council Victoria; 2024 [cited 2025 May 04]. Available from: https://www.cancervic.org.au/get-support/living-with-cancer/emotions/your-coping-toolbox.html

 

16 – Cancer Council Australia. Cancer side effects [Internet]. Australia: Cancer Council Australia; [cited 2025 May 04]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/cancer-side-effects  

 

17 – Cancer Institute NSW. Long-term side effects [Internet]. Sydney: Cancer Institute NSW; [cited 2025 May 01]. Available from: https://www.cancer.nsw.gov.au/general-cancer-information/diagnosis-and-treatment/treatment/side-effects/long-term-side-effects

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