Resources

Coping with Diagnosis and Treatment

Ways to Cope With Your Diagnosis and Treatment

Learning that you have cancer can bring up many difficult feelings. It's only natural to have concerns about your treatments, their side effects, and your future.

How am I expected to feel?

There is no one way to react to a diagnosis of cancer. Talking to your doctor and other members of your health care team can help empower you as you go through treatment. Some members of your health care team, such as a social worker, can help you deal with your feelings.

How will head and neck cancer affect my life?

A diagnosis of cancer can have a profound impact on many aspects of your life. Sometimes head and neck cancer can affect sensory functions, including smell, taste, hearing, and vision. Being informed and talking with your health care team can help you deal with these issues.

What is the best way to cope with my cancer?

Become a partner with your health care team. Ask questions about your treatment options, their possible side effects, and how these things may affect your lifestyle. It’s a good idea to write down all your questions and the answers your health care team provides so you can refer to the information at any time. Once you have decided on a treatment option, follow the advice of your health care team and let them know about any problems you experience. At the end of this guide, you will find a list of resources that can help provide information and link you to support groups in your area.