The Thing About Advanced Cancer

Everyone says that if you're caring for someone in their last months, you need to look after yourself, but how exactly do you do that? What are some practical day-to-day strategies? How can you manage feelings of guilt about self-care? What are your options if you need a break and how can you recognise the signs of burnout? Julie McCrossin discusses these questions and more with Professor Liz Lobb.

Caring for someone with advanced cancer can affect every aspect of your life, including your relationships with family and friends. And as the carer, you’re often the one who needs to manage people’s reactions and work through any conflict that comes up – and that can take its toll on your emotional reserves. How can carers navigate this tricky territory and cope with all the shifting dynamics? Julie McCrossin tackles these issues with clinical psychologist Cath Adams.

If you're a carer of someone who wants to die at home, you may be wondering what that would involve and how you would manage. What are the practical, emotional and social aspects to consider? Where can carers turn for support and how can a palliative care team help? Julie McCrossin talks with Dr Cynthia Parr about providing end-of-life care at home.

Bereaved carers often feel very isolated after the death and may experience a wide range of emotions. How does grief change over time, and how can carers come to terms with their loss? Julie McCrossin talks about grief and loss with bereavement counsellor Nathan MacArthur.

If someone you care about dies from cancer, the grief can be intense and long-lasting. So how can you tell if what you are feeling is normal and when should you think about seeking extra support? Julie McCrossin explores these questions with bereavement counsellor Nathan MacArthur.