Having a serious illness will bring about changes. Learning what is likely to happen and how things could change can reduce your anxiety. It may help you decide whether you want to keep working, whether this is the right time to take a special trip or make contact with people who are important to you.

There are many good quality websites and documents that explain symptoms and diseases for both cancer and non-cancer diagnoses. Links to these resources can be found on the CareSearch page Disease Specific Resources.

Our understanding of pain and other symptoms has increased greatly. There are new drugs and approaches to symptom control that can help maintain a good quality of life. Talking with your doctor, community or palliative care nurse is part of taking charge. 

You may also want information to read and think about later on. Don't be afraid to seek the amount of information that makes you feel comfortable. Your healthcare team can provide information on local groups and resources. The CareSearch State Resources page provides links and information on services and organisations in your state or territory. Commonwealth Carelink Centres can also assist with information and help as can Lifeline’s Service Finder.

Patient support groups are another way of getting information and help. There are state by state groups listed in the CareSearch Finding Services section.

 

This page was created on 26 March 2007 and is due for review in March 2009