It was World Mental Health Day on Sunday 10th October. Since then, there have been many conversations about our mental health. The Community is a place for these conversations to continue alongside being a source of support.
Our Mental health and wellbeing are just as important as our physical health, so we should take the time to understand how we are feeling, and how we can look after ourselves.
“Sorry about my long post, it's made me feel a little better to actually type this all out though and see it in print.”
moosiemoo, Supporting someone with Incurable cancer forum
“I just feel like I need to voice my feelings, and this seems a safe place to do so.”
Sunflower1988, Follicular lymphoma forum
“My biggest distraction is my family, looking after my boys, and enjoying conversations with my partner. I love a good walk in the countryside too. My creative distractions are my piano & writing projects. And lastly, I take great pleasure in a nice cup of tea, a good book, and a nice guided meditation.”
gladtobeme, Breast cancer forum
Have you heard the saying “a problem shared is a problem halved”? It means to share your problem with someone, is to make the situation easier to cope with. This is not to suggest that the situation automatically improves, but it can provide reassurance that you are not coping with things alone.
We know that it is helpful to speak to others who may have been through similar experiences. Even if they have not been through what you have, it can be settling to speak to someone who can understand.
“Go to your nurse, doctor with any medical questions or on here where you can get straight, honest answers and support from people who have been there.”
Abs61, Womb (uterus) cancer group
“Many other members mention these aches & pains too so I don’t think we’re alone. I find gentle exercise also helps especially my hips & back. Hope that helps a little if only in reassuring you that it’s not abnormal to be feeling this way.”
Nikki65, Anal cancer forum
“Signing up to this website was the game changer for me. Thank you to everyone who gave me such support and wise advice especially Mike the Highlander. Also thank you for your virtual hugs.”
Joncol, Follicular lymphoma forum
Community Support
Alongside the different Cancer type groups on the Community, our Cancer Experiences section has different groups that can support our member’s wellbeing. You are always welcome to join these groups if you feel they would help you.
Additional Support for your mental health
A mental health condition can be something you have lived with all your life, or something that has developed from a certain experience. Outside of the Community, there is a range of Mental health support services and information you can access when you need it.
NHS Every Mind Matters website has information and resources to help you with your personal mental health. Speaking to your GP may also be a good conversation to have if you feel you may need some talking therapies such as counselling.
The charity Mind specialise with helping people with their mental health. They have information and resources on their website that you may find helpful.
Our Macmillan Support Line has specialist teams to provide emotional support and a listening ear. Whilst it can be helpful to speak to members on the Community, you may also feel talking to our Information and Support Advisers helpful. You can call them on 0808 808 00 00 every day from 8am-8pm or talk to them on webchat by clicking here.
Have you got any mental health tips you'd like to share? Please let us know by posting below in the comment box. We are here to help each other on the Community so please do reach out to us if you need some support.
