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Anxiety and distress
Feeling worried, scared or overwhelmed is a normal reaction to cancer. You don't have to handle it alone, and it can be treated.
When it happens
It can come at diagnosis, before scans ('scanxiety'), during treatment and after.
What helps at home
- Tell your care team how you're feeling. Many centers have social workers and counselors.
- Try slow breathing, short walks or mindfulness apps.
- Join a support group or get a mentor (see our directory).
- Limit late-night internet searching.
- Write questions down before appointments.
Call your care team now if you have:
- You think about hurting yourself. Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or 911 now
- You can't sleep, eat or function for days
- Panic attacks
Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain or signs of stroke.
Drugs on this site linked to anxiety
Find support
- CancerCare: Free counseling, support groups and financial help
- Cancer Support Community: Support groups, a helpline and the MyLifeLine online community
- Imerman Angels: Free one-on-one matching with a survivor or caregiver mentor
- American Cancer Society: 24/7 helpline (1-800-227-2345), rides to treatment, lodging and information
Common questions
How do I cope with cancer anxiety?
Talk to your team, lean on support groups like CancerCare's free counseling, and use small daily calming habits.
Written by the Cancer Side Effects Guide team from FDA labels and leading cancer centers. Not medical advice. · Last updated: October 15, 2026 · How we write
Not medical advice. This page is general information to help you talk with your care team. It can't replace advice from your doctor or nurse. If you have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher during treatment, or any symptom that worries you, call your care team now. In an emergency, call 911.