How to tell your family you have breast cancer

TAKE TIME TO PROCESS THE DIAGNOSIS YOURSELF AND DO WHAT FEELS RIGHT FOR YOU. BY CAMILLA FOSTER

- BY CAMILLA FOSTER

TELLING your family you've been diagnosed with breast cancer is one of the hardest conversations you may ever have.

The emotions are overwhelming and there is often a prevalent fear of how loved ones will react, which can make it difficult to know where to begin.

As we head into Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October), experts give their advice and tips on how to approach this deeply personal conversation.

From preparing what to say to managing emotional responses, here are practical tips to help guide you through sharing your diagnosis with the people who matter most...

TAKE TIME TO PROCESS THE DIAGNOSIS

“Emotional readiness is really important. Take some time to go away and process the news first at home in your own space before discussing it with family,” recommends Kate Tomkinson, breast cancer nurse and spokesperson for Prevent Breast Cancer Charity UK.

“Gather your thoughts and let everything sink in, and don’t worry as it may not do so for some time.”

CHOOSE THE RIGHT TIME AND PLACE

“There is no rule book for when you receive a cancer diagnosis, there’s no right or wrong way to do things,’ emphasises Kate. It’s about just taking a day at a time and doing what feels right for you.