Information & Support
A pancreatic cancer diagnosis can affect far more than the body. Whether you have been diagnosed, are caring for someone, or are grieving, you do not have to sort out the emotional side alone.
This page brings together support groups, online communities, and counselling options available across Canada — and shows you where to start. The Heather Cutler Foundation shares information about external services. We do not provide counselling or crisis support.
In crisis, or thinking about suicide: call or text 9-8-8 — free, 24 hours a day, anywhere in Canada, in English and French.
If someone is in immediate danger: call 9-1-1.
Three routes, depending on what you need. None of them requires you to have the right words first.
Your oncology team can connect you with social workers and counsellors who work with cancer patients every day. This part of care is called psychosocial oncology — support for mental health, coping, and quality of life during and after treatment. Ask at your next appointment, or call the clinic and ask.
Not sure what to say? Start here →The Canadian Cancer Society's free, Canada-wide helpline. Information specialists answer questions about cancer and can help you find emotional support services in your community. It is an information service — not a crisis line or counselling.
Live chat and email options at cancer.ca →Wellspring's programs for pancreatic cancer — one-on-one peer support and short-term professional counselling — are reached through one number. The programs are offered with Pancreatic Cancer North America.
See the counselling listings →Starting the conversation is often the hardest part. You can say — or read out — exactly this:
“I'm finding it hard to cope between appointments. Can I talk to someone about how I'm feeling?”
Ask your care team. Coping support is a normal part of cancer care, not an extra.
“I'm caring for someone with pancreatic cancer, and I need support for myself too.”
Caregivers can ask for support in their own right — you do not need to be the patient.
“Could you refer me to a social worker or counsellor who works with cancer patients?”
A referral can open up psychosocial oncology services at your cancer centre.
Support groups are peer support — people who understand because they are living it, sometimes with a trained facilitator. They are not professional counselling.
Wellspring, with Pancreatic Cancer North America
A professionally facilitated online group where people living with pancreatic cancer and their families can share, listen, and connect.
Wellspring, with Pancreatic Cancer North America
A professionally led online group for younger adults living with pancreatic cancer, at any stage — the questions that come with work, family, and a diagnosis earlier in life included.
Craig's Cause Pancreatic Cancer Society
A small-group session led by Patient Support Manager Erin. Participants check in, exchange support, and discuss topics chosen the week before. Groups are capped at 10 people.
Before you post: check the community's privacy settings and how it is moderated. Avoid sharing details that identify you or your care team, and remember that personal experience is not medical advice.
Canadian Cancer Society
A moderated online community where people affected by any cancer in Canada connect, share experiences, and exchange practical information.
Reddit community
A Canada-only community for pancreatic cancer questions, experiences, and support. It was founded by our executive director as an independent, org-neutral space — it is not a Foundation program, and the Foundation does not moderate medical discussions there.
Smart Patients (international)
An international forum for patients and caregivers, with discussions on treatments, managing side effects, and daily life with pancreatic cancer.
Inspire (international)
A global support network connecting patients, families, and caregivers to share experiences and learn from one another.
Peer support and professional care are different things. If things feel serious or unmanageable, professional counselling is the right next step — that is a strength, not a last resort.
Wellspring, with Pancreatic Cancer North America
Professional counselling for serious needs that can come with a pancreatic cancer diagnosis — including clinical depression, suicidal thoughts, substance use, and relationship difficulties.
Wellspring, with Pancreatic Cancer North America
Talk one-on-one with a trained volunteer who has direct experience of cancer. You are matched first, then sessions are arranged by email. This is peer support — a listening ear from someone who has been there — not professional counselling.
See more counselling options, including through your cancer centre →
You need to talk to someone today: call 9-8-8 in a crisis, or the Cancer Information Helpline at 1-888-939-3333 for information and guidance.
You want to meet people who understand: start with a support group — listening quietly is fine.
You are caring for someone and running on empty: the Caregivers Hub has a section on looking after yourself.
You are looking closer to home: your provincial guide lists cancer navigation and support contacts for your province.
More ways to find support: mental health apps our family used · Caregivers Hub
Program availability, eligibility, and fees can change. Please confirm details directly with the provider. Spotted something out of date on this page? Let us know.