For many, Christmas is a time of celebration, family gatherings, indulgent food, and gift-giving. But for those living with a rare or less common cancer diagnosis—or supporting someone who is—the season can bring feelings of anxiety, sadness, or even grief.
Navigating Christmas with cancer is not simple, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Here are some practical tips to help make the season more manageable, protect your emotional and physical health, and create moments of comfort and connection.
Lower Your Expectations
Between preparing elaborate meals, finding the ideal gifts, and managing social obligations, Christmas often comes with high expectations. Add a cancer diagnosis and treatment into the mix, and it’s easy to feel exhausted and overwhelmed.
Instead of striving for perfection, focus on what feels manageable. Let go of traditions or activities that no longer serve you and embrace new, simpler ways to celebrate. Be honest with yourself and others about your limitations. Acknowledge that having cancer changes what’s possible—and that’s okay.
Take Your Time
Christmas doesn’t have to be crammed into just one or two days. The festive season stretches across 12 days, offering plenty of opportunities to spread out activities and reduce pressure.
Instead of exhausting yourself trying to fit everything into Christmas Day or Boxing Day, pace yourself. Share time with loved ones, attend events, or enjoy festive meals on different days. This can make the celebrations more enjoyable and less overwhelming.
Make the Most of Online Convenience
Take advantage of online shopping for gifts, groceries, or experiences you can send from afar. It’s a simple way to handle holiday preparations without exhausting yourself. Many platforms even allow for items to be gift-wrapped and delivered directly, saving you time and energy.
Protect Your Energy
Your health and well-being come first. While friends and family may want to visit and spend time with you, remember that you don’t need to say “yes” to every invitation or visitor.
If you’re hosting or attending gatherings, invite only those you feel comfortable with and keep events low-key. Ask guests to bring a dish or contribute in other ways to reduce your workload.
Remember, protecting your energy isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for your healing and quality of life.
Manage Worries and Focus on the Present
The holidays can magnify worries about cancer, treatment, or the future. While these feelings are valid, it’s important to give yourself moments of respite.
One helpful technique is to schedule “worry time.” Dedicate 10 minutes each day to acknowledging and processing your concerns. Once that time is up, redirect your focus to an activity that brings you comfort or joy—whether it’s sipping hot chocolate, taking a walk, or listening to music.
Mindfulness practices can also help. Try to focus on the present moment—on the laughter of loved ones, the taste of a favourite treat, or the beauty of twinkling lights. These small moments of joy can help ground you amidst the uncertainty.
Listen to Your Body
Christmas traditions often revolve around food, but there’s no need to force yourself to eat if you’re not feeling up to it. If snacking or grazing feels more comfortable than sitting down for a big meal, honour what your body needs.
Your comfort is what matters most—there’s no rule that says Christmas must look a certain way.
Maintain Basic Routines
While the holidays can disrupt daily schedules, try to maintain some consistency in your routine. Prioritize sleep, gentle exercise, and good nutrition. These habits provide a sense of control and support both your physical and mental health.
Continue practicing good hygiene, especially if you’re immunosuppressed. The festive season often involves gatherings with people from different places, which can increase the risk of illness. Protecting your health should remain a top priority.
Give Yourself Grace
The holiday season is often associated with cheer and positivity, but you don’t need to force yourself to feel “jolly.” Be gentle with yourself and allow space for your emotions, whatever they may be.
Share your mixed feelings about the season and your cancer experience. Many people will appreciate your authenticity and want to support you in meaningful ways.
The festive season can heighten memories and emotions, and that’s normal. Honour your feelings without judgment—you’re doing your best, and that’s enough.
You Are Not Alone
It’s important to remember that help is always within reach, even during the holidays. If you or someone you love is struggling, know that there are people and resources ready to support you.
- Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 659 467
- Cancer Council: 13 11 20 (limited hours during the holiday season; voicemail messages will be returned from January 3).
For urgent medical concerns, reach out to the on-call staff for your treating team or contact emergency services at 000.
Please note:
You can reach our Specialist Cancer Navigators on 1800 257 600 or via email at support@rarecancers.org.au. Rare Cancers Australia will be closed from 5pm, Friday 20 December, to 9am, Monday, 6 January, but we will respond to your voicemail or email on our return.
