I Was Just Diagnosed and I Am Terrified

This page is for anyone facing a new cancer diagnosis, and for the people close to them. It covers what is normal to feel and practical steps for your first week.

Representative Story Disclosure
This is a representative story created from common experiences described by patients and caregivers. It is not the story of one identifiable person, and individual experiences can differ substantially.

Marcus felt paralyzed after he read a lung cancer diagnosis in his patient portal. He took a breath and called his sister. She helped him set up a notebook just for his care and book a visit with an oncology team (cancer specialists).

Clear information and a support system helped Marcus move forward.

1. Keep your records in one place. Use a binder or digital folder. Put pathology reports, imaging scans, medication lists, and clinic summaries in it.
2. Bring a support person. A family member or trusted friend can come to important visits. They can take notes and ask follow-up questions.
3. Know how to reach your team. Have the numbers for your care team and your nurse navigator (a staff member who helps guide you through care). Know the after-hours number too.
4. Look after your mental health. Reach out to an oncology social worker. Look for counseling or a support group that fits your needs.

• Shock, disbelief, and deep fear are normal reactions to a new diagnosis. Almost everyone has them.
• Focus on the next few steps: organizing records, choosing a support person, and writing down questions.
• Avoid late-night internet searches. Rely on trusted cancer sites and your care team.
• A diagnosis is the start of a step-by-step care plan that specialists design with you.

These are answers to common questions about this topic.

Should I get a second opinion right away?

Many people ask for a second opinion before treatment begins. It is reasonable to ask. See how to ask for a second opinion.

How can I manage panic attacks or sleeplessness after diagnosis?

Tell your care team right away. They can connect you with an oncology social worker and counseling, and your doctor can talk with you about treatment for anxiety or poor sleep.

1. "What exact type and stage of cancer do I have?"
2. "What other tests (such as genomic sequencing or PET scans) are needed before treatment starts?"
3. "Who is my main contact for urgent questions?"

Fear after a diagnosis is expected. A few things in that first week are not something to sit with alone.

• Call 911 or go to an emergency department if you are thinking about ending your life, or you have made any plan to. In the United States you can also call, text or chat 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
• Call your care team the same day if panic attacks are stacking up, you have barely slept for several nights, or you cannot eat. Oncology teams can help with this quickly, and doing so early makes the weeks ahead easier.
• Call your care team the same day if the symptom that led to the diagnosis gets sharply worse while you are waiting for appointments. Do not wait for the scheduled visit to raise it.
• Call your care team within a day or two if fear is stopping you from booking or attending appointments. Say that plainly. A nurse navigator or oncology social worker can take some of the load off you.

The National Cancer Institute can also answer questions. Call 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237) or use live chat at livehelp.cancer.gov.

• National Cancer Institute — Adjusting to Cancer
• NCI PDQ — Depression (Patient Version)
• National Cancer Institute — Emotions and Cancer: Coping with Your Feelings
• NIMH: Help for Mental Illnesses (988 Lifeline)
• American Cancer Society — Questions to Ask When You've Been Diagnosed with Cancer