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How to Talk to Family Members about Cancer

Parents generally avoid telling their children any form of “bad news” that might worry or upset them.

However, children of all ages notice more than parents acknowledge.

Younger children tend to reciprocate feelings, attitudes, and behaviors like their parents.

Teens, especially, make it a priority to seek the truth and the full truth.

Family members who have adult children also might find it hard to discuss their illness together.

Although parents might be aware that their children are catching on, they are still dealing with a tremendous amount of stress, pain, and uncertainty. With the right kind of help, parents and their children can alleviate some of the anxiety and learn to cope with cancer together.

Each page in this website section discusses the different aspect of talking to young children, teens, and adult children about cancer.