Emotional support services

Our healthcare professionals provide compassionate guidance and emotional support for blood cancer patients and their loved ones as they navigate the cancer roller coaster from diagnosis through to treatment and survivorship.

It’s natural to feel a range of emotions including sadness, grief, anger and fear throughout the cancer journey. Our highly experienced team can provide understanding and practical advice, information and resources every step of the way. They can also facilitate access to expanded support networks including psychologists, counsellors, occupational therapists and support groups.

Whether you need to talk about how you are feeling today, need support adjusting to the changes in your life, or are feeling completely overwhelmed by your emotions, we are here to listen, provide support and connect you with other people who can help.

The Emotional Support Service can be accessed by patients and their carers, family members and friends.

How do we provide support?

We provide practical guidance and reassurance with support services designed for every stage of the cancer journey. Our services include:

• Emotional support to help people adjust to their diagnosis and associated life changes, and explore the impacts on family and friends

• Carer support and resources for friends and family members (including children) to help them adjust to their role as a carer and answering common questions like, “How do we support someone with blood cancer?”

• Grief and bereavement support including counselling, resources and referrals to other support services

• Advice on how to access specialist support including psychologists, counsellors and allied health professionals, such as occupational therapists, exercise physiologists and nutritionists. Our team members can provide advice on how to access specialist support services through GPs or the Leukaemia Foundation online support service. However, we cannot give direct referrals to external services or financial support to cover consultations with other service providers.

Eligibility and costs

Our Emotional Support Service is available to anyone living with blood cancer and their loved ones.

Thanks to generous community supporters and other funding sources, the Leukaemia Foundation can provide these services free of charge.

How to access this service

Our healthcare professionals can be contacted on 1800 620 420 (free call) or via the Online Support Services portal. Video calls and in-person support are also available, subject to availability.

Helpful resources

• Online support groups
• Webinars and support program calendar
• Podcasts