If you, or someone you know, is affected by cancer, the experience can take its toll. Different people are affected in different ways, depending on their situation, their personality and how much support they have. But common reactions include fear, anxiety, anger, despair, grief and worry.

Some people find it helpful to talk things through with friends and loved ones. But others find it difficult to express their feelings to people who know them, and find it easier to talk to a professional, or to others going through a similar experience.

A range of organisations run services where you can share your feelings and feel listened to and understood. Some offer specialist support for people currently living with cancer, as well as for carers,cancer survivors, people at the end of their life and people who are bereaved. Others offer support that is suitable for anyone touched by cancer, whatever they are going through right now.

If everything feels like too much, talk to your cancer team too. They can refer you for extra support and may discuss options such as medication to ease low mood or anxiety.