Members of the Online Community often talk about experiencing anxiety. This might be following a cancer diagnosis or whilst waiting for a scan or results. Anxiety levels can also increase both before and after cancer treatment.
This blog will focus on what the Online Community has shared about managing anxiety and the symptoms of anxiety. We’ll highlight some helpful tips and tools shared by our community members and Macmillan experts who are here to help in our Ask an Expert section.
The Online Community is a safe and supportive space where you can be open about your emotions.
If you are struggling with anxiety today and prefer to talk things through over the phone, why not chat with someone on our Support Line. Our support team are available 7 days a week, 8am-8pm on freephone 0808 808 00 00, email or live webchat.
Tips and tools from Macmillan and our partners:
If you ever feel your anxiety symptoms or stress is becoming unmanageable, it's important to contact your GP or health care team and tell them how you feel so they can help. The NHS 111 service is also available, 24 hours a day - 7 days a week, if you need help or advice in assessing your situation.
Every day, we see how the Online Community is used for additional peer-to-peer emotional support. While friends and family can be a great source of support, our members often share how helpful it is to connect with others who are going through the same thing.
“I have been reading many posts and everyone is so supportive and kind and helpful with suggestions when necessary. My friends are very supportive, but I think there is nothing like talking to others going through exactly the same thing.”
Community member - Mesothelioma forum
When supporting a loved one with cancer, it’s important to make sure that you are also receiving support yourself. Friends and family who are feeling anxious can find support in the Online Community. Soon after their son was diagnosed with testicular cancer, this member joined the Online Community and found comfort in reading other members' stories.
“I’m definitely getting some relief from the fear and anxiety this is causing all of us by reading about yours and others’ journeys.”
Community member – Testicular cancer forum
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to managing anxiety. Members of the Online Community have shared various approaches that have worked for them.
“Are you able to get outside for walks? I find that helps reduce anxiety - listen to radio/music as you walk. I often get off to sleep listening to mindfulness apps or BBC Sounds have various sleepscapes which are good. Try not to think too far ahead, take it 1 day at a time. Keeping a journal of your thoughts can be a helpful tool too.”
Community member – Head and neck cancer forum
There are several apps, relaxation techniques, and coping strategies that can improve your well-being.
“In terms of coping strategies for the wait and the anxiety, I found the Headspace app on my phone useful. You can get the free version and it helps you concentrate on the moment, controlling your breathing and focusing on the now.”
Community member – Cervical cancer forum
Simple practices can be implemented to help you in your daily life. Some of our members, however, report experiencing severe anxiety. When this is the case, treatment options can be discussed with your GP, as medication can be an appropriate solution.
“I had medication and counselling and found both helpful. There are other things like deep breathing exercises and mindfulness techniques that I also found useful.”
Community member – Cervical cancer forum
We can be overloaded with all sorts of information these days. It can be very tempting to jump online and ask Google for answers, but this can cause increased concern and anxiety. Communicating your concerns to the correct people is key.
“You’re absolutely right, I made the mistake of using Google at the beginning and it just made my anxiety worse. I find talking here such great comfort.”
Community member – Breast cancer forum
To avoid misinformation, our expert advisors are here to answer any questions you may have. They are here to provide trusted cancer information and often share tips and guidance on coping with anxiety.
A Community member, anxious about potential side effects from treatment, reached out in our Ask a nurse forum. One of our cancer information nurses responded with support and advice for dealing with emotions;
“It is common to have many different emotions when you have cancer. And, starting a new treatment especially if you don’t have enough information can make you feel anxious.
But the best way to deal with that is by talking about how you are feeling and asking questions.
Talking to your Chemotherapy team or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) about any worries or concerns you have will hopefully alleviate your anxiety going forward. So yes, communication is key.”
If you have felt anxious recently and want to share what has helped you, you can do so in the comments below. If you see someone in your forum posting about how anxious they feel, why not share a link to this blog as the information may be helpful to them.
Any feedback, comments or concerns, are welcome below or by email at community@macmillan.org.uk .
