How you can help yourself

If you and your family understand your illness and its treatment you will be better prepared to cope with your situation. If you don’t understand something about your treatment or disease, or if you want to know about side effects and possible outcomes of your treatment, it is important to ask.

If you don’t understand the explanation, keep asking until you do.

Ask your doctor for regular updates on your progress and ask them to explain to you how things are going. Talking about your fears to your family and friends or to support organisations| can help to relieve tension.

Your emotional well-being is as important as your physical health. Everyone needs some support during difficult times and having a transplant may be one of the most stressful situations you ever face. If you feel that low moods are getting the better of you, try to talk over your feelings with someone you feel close to, who is a good listener. You may also find it helpful to discuss your feelings with a trained counsellor, a leader or member of your religious faith, or a social worker.

You may feel comfortable talking about your concerns with your doctor or nurse. They can often help you to bring your feelings out into the open. If necessary, they can refer you to a counsellor or social worker for further help.

You could read our section, Talking about your cancer|.