Eftychia Tataridou, Medical Doctor at Theageneio Anticancer Hospital of Thessaloniki, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“After a difficult diagnosis, many times we don’t know what to Say. And in our attempt to help, we may Say something that ultimately does not help.
A few phrases that might be worth rethinking – and some more meaningful ways to stand by a person with glioblastoma.
Because the way we speak also matters.
(The phrases are based on principles of oncological communication, empathy, and psychosocial support.).”
- Don’t Say:
“Be positive.”
Say:
You don’t have to be strong every day. I am here.
- Don’t Say:
“Don’t think about it.”
Say:
“Do you want to talk about it, or would you prefer I just sit here with you?”
- Don’t Say:
“Don’t cry. You have to fight.”
Say:
You are allowed to feel whatever you are feeling. You don’t have to hide it from me.
- Don’t Say:
“I know someone with cancer who got better.”
Say:
“I want to hear about your own experience, without comparing it to anyone else’s.”
- Don’t Say:
“Everything will be okay.”
Say:
“I don’t know what will happen. But I do know that I am here with you.”
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