Worrying about loved ones

PLEASE NOTE: This session is only for women with advanced/metastatic breast or gynaecological cancer.

The stresses and strains of living with metastatic cancer are felt not only by the woman diagnosed but by her loved ones as well. It is difficult to see others affected by fear, anxiety and sadness because of your illness experience. And the impact extends beyond emotional worries. People may be affected psychologically, physically, financially, or because of family dynamics and role changes. Concern for loved ones, especially for children, and the desire to protect them often weighs heavily on women living with metastatic cancer. There are no easy answers here – each person and family will deal with these issues in their own way.

This session offers a short presentation from a psychologist working with women and their families affected by cancer, as well as some space to share and listen to other women dealing with similar concerns.

Belinda Astl is a psychologist with over 25 years of experience in health and organisational settings, including developing the peer support volunteer training program for Counterpart. Adjustment to cancer has been a career long interest and she is keen to support individuals to be active in their health choices. Belinda works in private practice and from Melbourne Psycho-oncology Service.

You are welcome to submit questions or comments on this topic in advance – email [email protected]

You can also ask questions in the session.

Complete registration for this event via our Eventbrite listing via the link below:

Register for the Worrying about loved ones workshop

Registrations for this event close at 5pm Wednesday 13 October.

NB. This session is for women with advanced/metastatic breast or gynaecological cancer.