Many cancer patients fear the possibility of death. They also fear cancer pain, the effect their disease might have on their family, and whether they will end up alone or totally dependent on others. Cancer patients can overcome these fears with help from family and friends as well as from doctors, nurses, social workers, and cancer survivors. Religous conviction can also help, said Larry Vandecreek, assistant director of pastoral care at University Hospitals. But I don't think having religious beliefs is an automatic treatment for being scared.
Religious people become fearful, too.
For many people, managing their fear of death begins with talking about it. The dialogue often begins when a patient asks if he or she is going to die, King says. That's a good opening to talk to them about what they think death will be like. But King also respects those who wish to keep their fears to themselves. Fear of pain is a major worry for many people diagnosed with cancer.