Sharing your feelings

	New patient information 1. What to expect 2. Talking with your care team » Question checklist 3. Emotional impact 4. Sharing your feelings 5. Finding support

You may not be ready to share all your feelings. Give yourself time to let your feelings out, and make sure the people who are supporting you know when you are ready. You may need to rely on family and friends more than you ever have before.

Share your feelings honestly, even anger, fear and inner confusion. Talking can be valuable if everyone learns to share feelings. Although you really do not want to hurt anyone, you may lash out at the people you love most, because you are afraid or angry. Express your feelings to them, and give them the opportunity to listen and understand.

Remember that they, too, may have some of the same feelings and need to release them. Your family may need time to adjust to your diagnosis. If your family is unable to be supportive, find others who will be, such as a support group or a counselor.