Counsellor suggestions in East Sussex?

I've woken up this morning and acknowledged that I need someone to talk to. My husband is 6 weeks post stem cell transplant and still in hospital and he's had every complication going and this follows 2 bouts of cancer. Hopefully he is now on the turn. The thing is they are now talking about discharge and I'm really scared on how I'm going to manage. I'm exhorsted from the worry, the 6 hour commute, the sitting in a hospital room watching someone in agony, having to deal with him being horrible to me, and dealing with his daughter who has been largely  'abscent' and very insensitive towards me. I've had really dark thoughts. Today I woke up tearful and a thought occurred...is this grief? Could anyone recommend a counsellor who understands this cancer/relative/Carer situation? Many thanks. 

  • Hello Summersun567

    I'm so sorry to hear about all that you and your husband have been through. Undoubtedly this will have been a very difficult time for you both and whilst you will have had shared experiences and concerns, you will both have had your own difficulties to face whilst he has been undergoing this treatment. 

    It's understandable that you're feeling exhausted and facing a wide range of emotions right now. Possibly you could be experiencing some form of grief but it could also be relief that he's now well enough for the hospital to consider discharging him or fear about how you will manage when he's home again or concerns about the future in general. It's not easy to unpick all the emotions you'll be experiencing at the moment so be kind to yourself Summersun567 and take things a day at a time. 

    I think reaching out for some professional support would be a really good idea. I've had a look and I can see that Macmillan has this information about services in the East Sussex area which includes a  counselling service. It's also worth chatting with your GP  about how you're feeling and asking about what services are available locally to you. 

    I would also suggest that you have a chat with one of the nursing team on the ward that your husband is on. Hopefully they will be able to allay some of the concerns that you have and give you some information that will reassure you. 

    If you'd like to chat with one of our nurses whilst you're organising some counselling support you are of course most welcome to give them a call. I know that they'll be happy to offer any advice, information, and support that they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    I hope that things improve for you both over the coming months and that the two of you are able to enjoy the summer sun together. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator