Summary
Many Americans will learn they have cancer this year. Supporting a friend with cancer can be hard, but simply being present, listening, and allowing them to express their feelings helps. Avoid telling unrelated stories or disappearing, as this may feel more hurtful than the illness itself.
Key Facts
- Over 2 million Americans are expected to be diagnosed with cancer this year.
- It is common for friends to not know how to support someone with cancer effectively.
- Experts recommend being present and listening as key ways to support a friend with cancer.
- Sharing unrelated cancer stories can feel irrelevant or hurtful to the person with cancer.
- "Cancer ghosting" is when people avoid contact out of fear or discomfort, which can feel more painful than the illness.
- Social support can impact a patient’s mental health and their ability to cope with the disease.
- Being physically present can help the person feel less alone and maintain some sense of normalcy.
