Just struggling and needing somewhere safe to get it all off my shoulders…
My mum is battling breast cancer. It has been an emotional journey.
I am a teacher so find I’m already masking almost everyday, all day, to remain professional. I feel I am carrying the weight of supporting the emotional wellbeing of other, elderly and vulnerable family members. I feel disconnected with everything and everyone. Something else that I feel is stirring up these feelings is that I’ve already lost my dad to a traumatic cause of death almost 10 years ago. I’m in my early 30’s and struggling to find an appropriate emotional outlet 
Hello pastelsheel,
My name is Derek, one of our volunteer Community Champions, and help where I can around the community.
A very warm welcome to the Macmillan online community, although I'm very sorry to hear of your mum's diagnosis and your own struggle dealing with this. It is not at all unusual to feel like you do, you don’t have to face everything alone and Macmillan is here for you with support in any way we can.
Initially I think you may find it helpful to have a chat with our Support Line team. You can talk through your situation there and obtain practical help and advice. They can also help you explore what support may be available in your local area. The Macmillan Support Line is open 7 days a week, from 8am to 8pm. You can reach them free on 0808 808 00 00, by email, or via live webchat.
Then there is advice available on a range of topics and more information can be obtained from our Ask an Expert forum. If you have a question you’d like a professional to answer just post your question there. A Macmillan professional will aim to respond within 1 to 3 working days.
A further excellent source of direct and practical help and information can be found from members of our dedicated Breast cancer forum . You can discuss anything you wish here with its members who are also dealing with breast cancer, whether as a patient, carer, relative or friend. This is a large and diverse group where you will find a very warm welcome.
I do hope you can find some useful help here.
With my best wishes.
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
