Is it normal to feel distress when you have cancer?

Yes. Almost all people living with cancer have some feelings of distress, so what you are feeling is very common.

Distress is emotional suffering. It can range from normal feelings of sadness and fear to more serious problems such as depression, anxiety, or panic. People with cancer have different levels of distress, and nearly half report having a lot of it. In general, the type of cancer does not change how much distress a person feels.

Distress often comes up when you feel unable to manage or control the changes cancer brings. The coping skills you need can shift at different points, such as at diagnosis, during treatment, or while waiting for follow-up results.

The good news is that support helps. Emotional and social support, counseling or talk therapy, relaxation training, and group support can all lower distress and help you feel more hopeful. Tell your care team how you are feeling so they can connect you with the right help.