By Greta Greer, MSW, LCSW


In my last blog, I provided general tips for communicating with someone diagnosed with cancer. In this blog, I talk about the added importance of good, open communication when you are caring for a loved one with cancer.

When it comes to being a cancer caregiver, I've found that caregivers often have the same questions and concerns as the person with cancer. Is he [am I] going to die? What if I can't handle this?  Where's the money coming from for treatment? Is the cancer his [my] fault? I told her to go [I know I should have gone]...to the doctor... stop smoking... lose weight...get a colonoscopy, mammogram, Pap smear...use sunscreen!  I'm so angry...scared...overwhelmed. Is cancer contagious?  However, both those with cancer and those who care about them may not share these concerns with one another. Why is that? More...

By Greta Greer, MSW, LCSW

Taking care of someone you love who has cancer is one of the most important roles you'll ever have. It could also be the most difficult one.

Stress is one of the most common challenges that caregivers face, especially those caring for someone with cancer. It's not easy learning to balance all your regular responsibilities, help your loved one, AND take care of your own health and well-being.  

As a result, caregivers often ignore their own physical and emotional health. It could be because they have less time, are too stressed, have less money, feel guilty for taking time for themselves, or simply forget.  Whatever the reason, it puts caregivers at much higher risk for health problems than people who aren't in a caregiving role. More...