James Van Der Beek is speaking out about how he "went into shock" after being diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer.

"I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it," James Van Der Beek said.

James Van Der Beek is speaking out about his colorectal cancer diagnosis and the early, seemingly innocuous symptom that ultimately prompted him to seek medical attention. “It was just a change in bowel habits,

The “Dawson’s Creek” alum revealed he’s been coping with the diagnosis “privately” with the support of his family.

Fans have been rallying around James Van Der Beek since news of his colorectal cancer diagnosis surfaced, sparking concerns for the actor best known for his role on Dawson’s Creek. Van Der Beek’s celebrated career,

In an interview with PEOPLE for its latest cover story, James Van Der Beek shared that he had a vasectomy a few years ago, long before he received his colorectal cancer diagnosis, and opened up about the decision.

Dawson's Creek' star James Van Der Beek has revealed he is being treated for colorectal cancer. He is 47 years old, and says he's optimistic.

The actor opens up to PEOPLE about finding out he has colorectal cancer — and what's next for him James Van Der Beek revealed on Nov. 3 that he'd been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer at age 46,

James Van Der Beek is best known for his role as the titular character in the popular WB series Dawson’s Creek. Since then, the teen heartthrob, now 47, has married and welcomed a slew of children. And recently,