Being diagnosed with, receiving treatment for, living with or recovering from cancer can be challenging and stressful. People with cancer and their whānau may need support throughout their cancer journey. They may also need rehabilitation to help them return to work, home life and any other activities during and after treatment.
Support
It is natural to have a wide range of feelings and concerns when it comes to cancer. You may have been recently told that you have cancer, be going through treatment, finishing treatment or have a friend or whānau member with cancer. Each person affected by cancer has individual needs which may be different to other people affected by cancer. Alongside emotional support needs, you may also have some practical support needs such as assistance with housing, transport and finances. It may be helpful to talk to someone you're comfortable with such as your partner, friends and whānau. You can also speak to a social worker, psychologist or counsellor who can help with both emotional and practical needs. Sometimes talking to someone else with cancer can help too.
Hospital-based support
Cancer Psychological and Social Support teams
There are social workers and psychologists at each hospital who can provide emotional and practical support and assistance for people with cancer. Speak to your cancer nurse or doctor about a referral.
Cancer Nursing support
Each hospital has cancer nurse coordinators or cancer nurse specialists who are there to support you during your hospital-based care.
Rehabilitation
Receiving cancer treatment can have a lasting effect on your health and wellbeing. The results of these treatments can develop unwanted side effects which can lead to significant impacts on your quality of life.
Cancer rehabilitation can help:
- keep you active so you can continue doing the things you enjoy
- reduce the side effects of treatment and unwanted cancer symptoms
- you to be as independent as possible
- improve your quality of life and wellbeing.
There are several cancer rehabilitation services. Talk to your doctor or nurse about what is available in your area.