Health Library

Melanoma is a type of cancer. Being told you have cancer can be scary, and you may
have many questions. But you have people on your health care team to help.

Coping with fear

It’s normal to feel afraid. Learning about your cancer and about the treatment options
you have can make you feel less afraid. This also helps you work with your health
care team and make the best choices for your treatment. You can also ask to speak
with a counselor.

Working with your health care team

Your health care team will likely include:

• A surgeon

• A skin specialist called a dermatologist

• A medical or radiation oncologist

• An oncology nurse

They will answer any questions you may have. They’ll help you through each of the
steps you’ll take before, during, and after treatment. Your team will let you know
what tests you need and the results of those tests. They’ll guide you in making treatment
decisions and help prepare you and your loved ones for what’s ahead.

Learning about treatment options

To decide the best course of treatment for you, your health care team needs to know
as much as they can about your cancer. This may involve getting some tests and working
with more than one doctor or other type of health care professional. And you may decide
that you want to get a second opinion to help you choose a treatment.

Getting support

Coping with cancer can be very stressful. Talk with your health care team about seeing
a counselor. They can refer you to someone who can help. You can also visit support
groups to talk with other people coping with cancer. Ask your health care team about
local support groups.