Many parents worry that their children will be negatively impacted for life. While research indicates that in the long run, children generally cope well with their parent s cancer, there are many ways you can help minimize their fears and anxieties. By understanding how your cancer is impacting your children, you will be able to help them cope. It is important to tell your children about your illness so that they have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about your cancer and how it affects you. You may feel you should protect your child from knowing the whole story, but being open and honest about your condition will allow children to express their feelings and play an active role in providing support to you and your family.
Young children are likely to feel confused, scared and lonely.
Children may feel guilty because they think something they did caused your illness. They may feel anxious, irritable or abandoned when parents become less available or preoccupied. Feelings of insecurity, anxiety and helplessness may cause children to act out in order to gain attention or a greater sense of control. Multiple changes to the daily patterns that you have established as a family can increase their feelings of insecurity and lack of control. Other adults in your child s life can provide companionship and help maintain scheduled activities.