Explaining a brain tumour diagnosis to children or young people can feel overwhelming. Our guidance offers practical advice to help you have honest, age-appropriate conversations and support them emotionally.
Deciding who to tell, and how to tell them, can feel overwhelming. Sharing news of a brain tumour diagnosis with family, friends, or colleagues is often one of the most difficult conversations you may face.
You might be worrying about how people will react, how the news will affect them, or what questions they may ask. It’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions, including anxiety, sadness, anger, fear or even guilt.
Some people find that talking brings a sense of relief, helping them feel less alone. There is no right or wrong way to do this. Choose what feels manageable for you, and be gentle with yourself as you take each step.
The guidance below offers practical suggestions, as well as information about how Brain Tumour Support can help.
If you’d like support preparing for these conversations, our Support Professionals can help you think through what to say, when to say it, and how to approach discussions with family, friends or your employer.
01454 422 701 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm)
Email our support team
Our services are free and confidential. You can also complete our request support form at any time.
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Explaining a brain tumour diagnosis to children or young people can feel overwhelming. Our guidance offers practical advice to help you have honest, age-appropriate conversations and support them emotionally.
Sharing your diagnosis at work can help your employer understand what support or adjustments you may need. Read guidance on approaching conversations about work, wellbeing and practical support.
Online and face-to-face support groups offering a safe space to share experiences and connect with others who understand.
Emotional and practical support for those supporting someone they love through diagnosis, treatment and beyond.
Confidential one-to-one counselling to help patients, families and carers process emotions and navigate uncertainty.
Join our moderated Facebook Support Forum for peer support, shared experiences and understanding at any time of day.
Alongside our emotional support services, we provide practical guidance to help you manage everyday challenges that can arise after a brain tumour diagnosis.
Specialist advice to help you understand your entitlements, navigate welfare benefits and reduce financial pressure during an already difficult time.
Information and guidance to help you look after your physical and emotional wellbeing during treatment and recovery.
Download trusted guides and booklets covering diagnosis, treatment, practical support and life beyond a brain tumour.
Guidance on your rights at work, workplace adjustments and conversations with your employer after diagnosis.
Practical information about travelling after diagnosis, including insurance considerations and medical travel guidance.
Understand your rights as a patient, including access to treatment, second opinions and support within NHS services.
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