There are a range of services and charities who can support patients with the emotional and psychological difficulties that come with cancer. They offer counselling and other support for patients and their family members.
Your healthcare team or the Cancer Information and Support Service (CISS) can tell you more about the available services and how to access them. You can also get help from your local mental health services if cancer or other problems affect your mental health. You can self-refer to your local service or ask your GP to make a referral for you.
Who to contact for urgent help
This service does not provide emergency help.
If you feel you need urgent emotional or mental health support, including experiencing suicidal thoughts or are considering harming yourself, please:
- contact your GP
- call 111 to access local mental health support
- contact the Samaritans’ free listening service on 116 123
If you feel that you are at immediate risk, please call 999 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Psychological and emotional support services
There are many services offering emotional support for people affected by cancer, including:
Last reviewed: 29 September 2025