How can I cope with fear and worry about cancer?

It's scary to hear that you have cancer. It's normal to feel afraid or worried—about pain, changes in how you look, caring for your family, bills, your job, or dying. These feelings are normal.

The National Cancer Institute says that to cope with fears and worries, it often helps to be informed. Some fears about cancer come from stories, rumors, or wrong information. Most people feel better once they learn the facts. They feel less afraid and they know what to expect. Some studies even suggest that people who are well informed about their illness and treatment are more likely to follow their treatment plans and recover more quickly.

Worry and anxiety can also cause physical signs, like a fast heartbeat, headaches, appetite changes, or trouble sleeping and concentrating. If you have these feelings, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can check whether medicines or treatment are the cause.

There are other ways to cope. You can ask your doctor to suggest a counselor, join a support group online or in person, or take a class on ways to deal with stress. Relaxation exercises, meditation, and guided imagery can help you relax when you feel worried. The key is to find ways to manage your stress so it doesn't control you.