Using complementary therapies when you are dying

Many people use complementary therapies to help them feel better, and cope with having cancer and its treatment. This is also true for people who are dying with cancer. Many complementary therapies aim to help you relax and reduce stress. They can help calm your emotions, relieve anxiety, and improve symptoms such as pain and sickness.

Some people who are dying find it helps to have gentle therapies such as

• Massage
• Aromatherapy
• Reflexology

But some people find that being touched is too painful or uncomfortable. Other types of therapies may be more helpful, such as

• Visualisation
• Meditation
• Reiki

CancerHelp UK has a whole section about complementary and alternative therapies. We also have information about many individual therapies, including those mentioned above.

Many palliative care wards and hospices have complementary therapists who can treat people who are dying.

Some hospitals, hospitals and support groups also offer complementary therapies for relatives and carers. This can be a great help if you are spending a lot of time at the bedside. An hour to have a relaxing massage can be a very important support during this emotional time. There is more information about caring for the carer in this section of CancerHelp UK.