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Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners
Who can help with extreme distress about a rectal cancer diagnosis?
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My friend has just been diagnosed and is not coping. He says he wants to die. Although I don't believe he is suicidal. He is not in a condition to search for support himself, and it has not been offered through his surgeon or GP. Is there a support line where he can discuss this with someone who understands the emotional issues he is facing rather than just the medical facts? -
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Dr Toni Lindsay
Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist
Dr Toni Lindsay is a clinical psychologist whose expertise is working with children, adolescents and adults living with chronic health conditions such as cancer, diabetes, … View Profile
Hi
It goes without saying that being diagnosed with cancer is an incredibly stressful experience. Its very common following diagnosis that people will question their purpose and express suicidal thoughts. This is normally transient but for some people can last for a longer time. The most important thing is that your friend is safe, and so if you have any concern about their safety it is not unreasonable to get help via a community mental health team or take him to emergency where he will be assessed. Most cancer centres will have counsellors that are specialists in cancer and managing the psychological impacts of a diagnosis, which can be helpful for managing the overwhelming nature of a new diagnosis. Also, private practitioners in the community may be specialists in coping with oncology issues as well, which you can get a referral from a GP. There is also the cancer council in all states who can offer phone support and often can offer link up with other patients to help people through the experience. This is free and depending on the state, you can look their details up online easily. This is a difficult time, but often people find that when they have a treatment plan, the overwhelming nature may settle a little. It's very reasonable to access support both for your friend, and for yourself if you are supporting them.
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