Blood cancer: mind and emotions

Living with a blood cancer such as leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma or any other type can be challenging, but there are a few things it might be helpful to keep in mind.

• It’s normal to go through lots of emotional ups and downs – Having a down day is not going to make your cancer worse.
• There are little things you can do to feel better – Being kind to yourself, trying mindfulness and staying as active as possible can all help.
• You don’t have to go through this alone – We’re here for you. Join our online community or contact our Support Services Team for more support.

If you’re not feeling great, it might feel overwhelming to think about making changes or finding new ways to cope. But this page is about small, simple things you can do to feel better in your daily life.

Pick one thing from this list that might help, and give it a try.

• Be kind to yourself – You’re going through a lot. It’s OK to say no to people and put off plans if you don't feel like it. Take time out for yourself - have a bath, read a book, watch a film.
• Keep up or start hobbies you can do at home – Anything you enjoy and which keeps your mind occupied can give you a break, recharge your batteries and help lift your mood.
• Try to stay active – Physical activity is good for your mental health too. It can help you sleep better, release feel-good hormones and help manage stress, anxiety and depression. Build up gradually and pace yourself. Read Edward's story about building up his fitness.
• Be creative – Being creative takes you out of your head and into the moment. Try drawing, painting, or listening to music. You don’t have to be talented, just find something you enjoy!
• Have something to look forward to – It could be something as simple as a call with a close friend, the next episode of a favourite TV programme, a special meal or the delivery of some online shopping.
• Start a diary – You can record your goals, things you've achieved, things that have helped you, and how you're feeling.

Mindfulness meditation can decrease worry or stress, relax you, and help you get a better night’s sleep. It can also help reduce anxiety and depression in people with cancer. Anyone can try mindfulness – it’s not about clearing your mind and you don’t need any special skills to give it a go.

Watch our videos to join Jane, Ann, Mel and Katie, who are all living with blood cancer, in some guided mindfulness meditations. You'll learn some breathing exercises and ways to connect to your body, to help you relax and reduce anxiety.

Living with blood cancer can also have a big emotional impact on those around you. You might feel pressure to hold it all together and try and support your loved ones. This can be a struggle if you’re not feeling great either.

Relieve some of this pressure by directing those close to you to our support for people who know someone with blood cancer. The ideas on communication, support and self-care will help them and may be useful for you as well.

We also have some videos that you might like to send to your family and friends, or watch with them:

It’s OK to ask for help – many people with blood cancer have told us they need more support. Speak to your healthcare team as a starting point.

Research shows getting psychological support including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can be helpful for people with cancer. Ask your GP, or self-refer online on the NHS website in England or through Breathing Space in Scotland.

In England, Scotland and Wales, you can get urgent mental health support by calling 111 and selecting the mental health option. You will be put through to a trained mental health worker.

In Northern Ireland, call your GP, GP out of hours service or contact your local urgent and emergency care service.