How to Tell Friends and Family that You Have Cervical Cancer

Explaining Your Cervical Cancer Diagnosis

Telling friends and family that you have been diagnosed with cancer is not an easy task. Not only do you have to deal with the emotions you are feeling, but you also have to cope with the reaction of the person you are telling. People automatically think of the worst when they hear the word "cancer" and react accordingly.

Pick and Choose Who You Will Confide in About Your Cervical Cancer Diagnosis

Many recently diagnosed women feel like they must announce their diagnosis to everyone around them. Feeling like everyone should know is normal; however, in some cases it's not always best. You may want to only tell those who will be supportive during treatment. This can include family, close friends, members of your clergy and perhaps your employer, if treatment will affect your work schedule.

People who will not make you feel comfortable talking about your diagnosis and treatment do not need to be in your support circle. Remember, you have the option of not telling people about your diagnosis.

Saying "I Have Cancer" Can be Therapeutic

The biggest challenge is saying the words "I have cancer." Saying those words out loud can release emotions that you may have unknowingly been suppressing. Talking about your diagnosis aloud validates the disease in your mind and brings reality into perspective. This is the first step in coping with cancer -- recognizing and accepting your illness.

Because telling your friends and family that you have cancer may unleash some hidden emotions, you may want to tell those who will provide the most support first. For many women, this is their spouse or partner. It is important to be completely honest about your cancer and prognosis to your significant other. It is easy to feel like you should "sugar coat" things to spare your loved one's feelings, but in the long run, it is far better to be completely honest upfront.

You Act as the Cancer Educator

The word cancer immediately strikes fear in people. This is a common and normal reaction. It is your responsibility to educate them on the extent of your disease. The more at ease and knowledgeable they are, the more effective support they can give to you. Being surrounded by people whose anxieties and fears are constant and obvious will not allow you to cope in a healthy manner.

Support is Reciprocal

When telling friends and family, you may find yourself providing support to them as much as they are providing support to you. This is when you will first realize that when battling cancer, it cannot be done by yourself -- it requires teamwork.