This site is intended for U.S. residents only.
This site is intended for U.S. residents only.
Learn how to cope and live with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs)
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Watch this video to see how Dean copes with his diagnosis.
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According to the National Cancer Institute, people may experience any of the following emotions after being diagnosed with NETs and during treatment.
Even if you’ve been having tests to find out the cause of your symptoms, you may be shocked to learn these are due to a rare type of cancer. You may find it hard to believe you have cancer, especially if you’ve had no NETs symptoms or if your tumors were found after a routine medical check-up.
Some people with NETs may feel a sense of relief to finally know they have a correct diagnosis after having gone through a number of medical tests and doctors’ visits.
You may feel angry about your diagnosis of NETs and how this could affect your life. You might be frustrated that it took so long to get a proper diagnosis, or angry with doctors who may have dismissed your concerns, or who wrongly diagnosed you with another condition.
You’ll probably have several concerns following your diagnosis. You may be anxious about your NETs treatment, the side effects, and how these could affect your life. A common fear among people after treatment for NETs is the fear that their cancer will come back (recur) after treatment. Many people living with NETs are also worried about the impact on their family life and on their finances.
It’s natural to feel sad when you find out you have cancer. Give yourself permission to cry if you need to. Talk to someone. If your sadness continues for a while, and you lose interest in doing activities that you normally love or can’t see an end to the sadness, it can help to speak to your doctor about signs of, or help for, depression.
People who are diagnosed with a rare cancer such as NETs will often feel isolated from their family or friends who will probably be unfamiliar with the condition. But you don’t have to face this alone. Contact patient support groups to talk to other people with NETs. Ask your doctor to refer you to a counselor who can understand what you’re going through.
Guilt can be a common emotion for many people diagnosed with NETs. You may blame yourself or worry you’re a burden to your loved ones. These feelings are all very common and you should not feel embarrassed about expressing your emotions. Sharing your feelings can help. Try to reach out to a friend, doctor, counselor, or support group.
Crying is a healthy way to release your feelings of stress, but it can be difficult to do in front of other people.
Recognizing and expressing your emotions can help you manage your psychological and physical health. At first, you may find it easier to talk to someone besides your doctor, who can really understand your emotions. Find out what works for you:
Living with NETs is not something that you have to do alone. Find help and support.
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Living with NETs - the home of neuroendocrine tumors information and support 
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