Breaking the News

Depending on the gravity of your health diagnosis, you’ll want to inform your family members about your condition. You may have told those who are closest to you, like your spouse or partner, but you may need to let the rest of your family know. No one should go through an illness alone and you may need to rely on your family and friends more now than ever.

Make a plan detailing who should know and whom you specifically want to tell the news. Talk to the people you feel most comfortable with. Also, weigh the pros and cons of this news. What effect will it have on each person you tell? You may not be ready for the pity from dramatic family members. For those people, ask another family member to break the news and explain that you will talk to that person when you’re ready.  

Your family members are also a wealth of wisdom and knowledge. You may have a family member who suffered from the same condition, but you didn't know it. Ask that relative about his or her experience and see if he or she has any advice for getting through it.

Your family is there to support you. Don’t forget to lean on them when you need to.