How to Support a Friend or Family Member Diagnosed with Cancer

When someone you care about is diagnosed with cancer, it can be difficult to know the best way to offer support. While every person’s experience is different, showing care and compassion in meaningful ways can make a significant difference. Here are some key strategies to help you support a loved one going through cancer:

1. Listen and Be Present

Your presence and willingness to listen are often the most valuable things you can offer. Let them talk about their feelings, fears, or frustrations without feeling pressured to offer solutions. Acknowledge their emotions and validate their experiences. Sometimes, a listening ear is more comforting than advice.

2. Respect Their Wishes

Cancer treatment is a personal journey, and people may choose to handle it in their own way. Respect their decisions, whether it's about treatment options, lifestyle changes, or what they wish to talk about. Offer support without imposing your opinions unless asked.

3. Offer Specific Help

Instead of saying, “Let me know if you need anything,” offer specific forms of assistance. For example:

• "I can drive you to your next appointment."

• "Can I pick up groceries for you this week?"

• "I’ll take care of the kids on treatment days."

This makes it easier for your loved one to accept help without feeling overwhelmed by general offers.

4. Stay Connected

Even if you’re not physically present, regular check-ins via text, phone calls, or video chats can help them feel less isolated. However, be mindful of their energy levels and don’t take it personally if they are not always able to engage.

5. Respect Their Privacy

Not everyone wants to discuss their diagnosis openly, and that’s okay. Be mindful of their comfort level when sharing information with others. Always ask before discussing their condition with anyone else to avoid breaching their privacy.

6. Be Flexible and Patient

Cancer treatments can be unpredictable, and your loved one may not feel up to commitments on certain days. Be understanding if they need to cancel plans or if their energy levels fluctuate. Show patience and flexibility with their changing needs.

7. Provide Emotional and Practical Support

• Emotional support: Simply being there for a laugh or a shoulder to cry on can help reduce feelings of loneliness.

• Practical support: This might include meal preparation, running errands, or organizing appointments. You could also help them keep track of medical information or provide support with household tasks.

8. Avoid Toxic Positivity

While positivity can be powerful, it’s important not to minimize their feelings or challenges by always encouraging them to "stay positive." Acknowledge their bad days, allow space for sadness, and offer empathy rather than forcing an optimistic outlook.

9. Encourage Self-Care and Mental Health Support

Cancer treatment can take a toll not only physically but also mentally. Encourage your loved one to take care of their mental health, whether that means connecting with a therapist, joining a support group, or simply engaging in self-care activities like reading, meditating, or journaling.

10. Be Prepared for Ups and Downs

A cancer journey often comes with moments of progress and setbacks. Be ready to support your loved one through both the good days and the bad, offering a stable source of care and encouragement throughout.

11. Support Caregivers

If your friend or family member has a primary caregiver, they are likely under significant pressure too. Offering support to the caregiver, whether by giving them a break or assisting them with tasks, can be just as helpful.

12. Be Mindful of Their Needs in Social Situations

Cancer treatments can affect how your loved one feels about participating in social gatherings. Keep them in the loop about events but respect their decision if they don’t feel up to attending. You can also suggest smaller, less demanding social activities if they still want to engage but are feeling drained.

Conclusion

Supporting a friend or family member with cancer requires empathy, understanding, and flexibility. Each person’s needs and preferences will vary, so the best approach is to offer unconditional support while respecting their individual journey. Your steady presence and thoughtful actions can make a lasting impact during this challenging time.

To learn how HuMOLYTE can aid in hydrating patients during chemotherapy and alleviating chemotherapy side effects, visit here.

About Dr. Sourabh Kharait

Dr. Sourabh Kharait (MD / PhD) is Clinical Nephrologist and Medical Director of Clinical Trials at Summit Nephrology Medical Group, and the Founder and CEO of IGH Naturals, a platform company that designs Functional Foods and Nutritional products for athletes and patients with chronic diseases.