Cancer and mental health

Hi Sonbeclee295b7b  Am so sorry to read about your diagnosis. It is almost a year since I was diagnosed and I found it very tough at the beginning.

There are various ways to get support.

Have you been assigned a key worker / breast care nurse? If you have I recommend reaching out to them and explaining how you feel.

Depending on where you live, there may be access to a specialist centre (Maggie’s for example or Future Dreams if you are in/ near London).

You can also phone the Macmillan helpline - they are incredibly supportive and experienced.

This forum is also invaluable - full of fabulous people who have been through or are going through diagnosis. There is always somebody to give advice or ‘listen’ and send you a virtual hug. 
Am so sorry you are feeling overwhelmed and it’s great that you have posted here. I would definitely contact your nurse or call the helpline x 

Thank you for you're help ️

Can I just turn up at Maggies any time? 

Hi Sonbeclee  yes you can just turn up at the Maggies Centre.  Hope you get the help that you need.  Sending you hugs.

Lee x

Hi Sonbeclee

I am so sorry to hear of your diagnosis. I had my diagnosis last June and it blew our world apart. I was in bits, my husband (who has mental health issues) was in bits, family members were in bits. Thankfully we don't have children but family didn't know how to cope. 

I went to Macmillan centre near me who were fantastic. So warm and supportive. Really helped my husband and I come to terms. I didn't find out about Maggies until I was directed to this forum. I've only been twice as I live quite far away from the nearest Maggies (in Leeds if you are up this way). They always had someone to talk to, a warm smile and made a decent cuppa. 

My breast care team were invaluable. From surgical to Oncology and treatment nurses at the day unit to Radiologists. There was someone for every step.

I can only strongly recommend contacting your nearest Macmillan/Maggies. I do understand that your mind must be swimming but you will also find that posting on this forum offers great advice and it was so refreshing to know that, although I felt like I was in a bubble and no-one understood my situation, many people are in different stages of their journey. You really are not alone.

Macmillan will also talk and listen to family and close friends if that helps.

Take care and I wish you all the best

So sorry to hear this you're struggling, but so good you've found this forum for advice and support.

Please do call the lovely folks here at Macmillan. From 8am to 8pm every day they are there to listen, chat and give advice and support,  the number is 0800 808 0000. Best wishes 

Hello. Welcome to the forum. 
Maggie’s Centres are amazing, very helpful and the staff are so kind and friendly. 

Sending love to you. x