Complementary therapies

Self-help groups

Joining a group of people affected by cancer gives you a chance to share experiences. If you need help dealing with certain emotions, self-help groups can offer different techniques and coping strategies. They can also be a great source of practical information and emotional support.

Support groups

This is when a trained therapist (counsellor or other professional) encourages a group of people to share their feelings and experiences with each other. The therapist is aware of each individual’s problems and guides the session to ensure everyone benefits.

Counselling

If you need to talk to someone outside your circle of family and friends, you may find speaking to a counsellor or psychologist can help. Counsellors and psychologists are trained to listen. They can help you explore your feelings and talk through confusing or upsetting emotions.

Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy may help you to make positive lifestyle changes or to encourage positive emotions, such as calmness and relaxation. Hypnotherapists work with you to create a helpful state of mind. The therapist will make suggestions, which are believed to have a helpful effect on the way you deal with certain situations.

Art therapy

Art therapy helps you to express feelings by painting, drawing or sculpting. This can help you become more aware of, and let go of, difficult feelings. Feelings can then be discussed in groups or counselling. 

Music therapy

Using a range of easy-to-use instruments to improve quality of life, by helping people communicate. You don’t need to be able to play an instrument or read music

Yoga

Yoga involves positioning your body in different ways and doing breathing exercises. There are different types, and most use some form of meditation or relaxation. Some use very gentle stretches, movement and meditation. Others involve more vigorous physical movements and dietary changes. 

Massage therapy

Massage is a form of structured or therapeutic touch. There are many types of massage. Some are soft and gentle, while others are more active. Massage therapy can be used to relax your mind and body, relieve tension and may enhance your mood. Massage therapists working with people with cancer must be properly trained and qualified.

Reflexology

By applying gentle pressure to specific points on the hands or feet, reflexology aims to help you relax. Reflexologists believe different areas on hands or feet represent, and are connected to, different parts of the body.

Acupuncture

This technique involves inserting sterile needles into certain 'trigger points' just below the skin. This is thought to stimulate the nerves and cause the release of natural chemicals into the body, which may give you a feeling of wellbeing. It is advised that you avoid acupuncture if you have low immunity or lymphoedema.

Aromatherapy

The use of natural oils extracted from plants is called aromatherapy. They are used during massage, in baths and creams or through diffusers. Many people find aromatherapy a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Visualisation

This therapy involves creating images in your mind while in a state of relaxation or meditation. The theory is that by imagining a peaceful scene, you will feel more relaxed.

Meditation

Meditation uses concentration or reflection to deeply relax and calm the mind. This can help reduce feelings of fear, pain, anxiety and depression. Regular meditation practice can help people feel more in control of themselves and their lives.

Relaxation

Relaxation therapy aims to reduce anxiety and stress by using simple breathing and relaxation exercises. There are different relaxation techniques you can use at home or as part of a group.

Diet and food supplements

In general, cancer experts recommend following a healthy, balanced diet. People often ask their doctor about special diets but there isn’t enough clear information to make exact recommendations about what someone with cancer should eat. Each person’s needs are different. A dietitian can give you advice on what to eat and may prescribe supplements if you need them.

Herbal remedies

Herbal remedies may be drunk as a tea or taken as a tablet, cream or ointment. Some herbs can interact with conventional treatment, so it is vitally important that you discuss any herbal remedies or supplementation you decide to use with your specialist first.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy may be used with conventional treatment to try to improve the quality of life for people with cancer. It involves taking a remedy that causes similar symptoms to the illness being treated. By doing this, therapists aim to trigger the body’s natural reaction.

Some complimentary therapies are available via the NHS, whereas others will need to be privately sourced. NHS choices and Macmillan have excellent advice about accessing the right therapy for you.