Coping With A Cancer Diagnosis

Hearing the words “you have cancer” can cause a lot of emotions from fear to depression. It is normal to feel apprehensive and anxious. But cancer is often curable. If you or a family member were diagnosed with cancer, there are several things you can do in order to cope emotionally and physically.

Initially After Cancer a Diagnosis

Dealing with the initial news of a cancer diagnosis is challenging, and it is not something you should try to deal with alone.

Whether it is a significant other, adult child, parent or a good friend, you need someone in your corner.

Ideally, a support person should accompany you to your initial meeting with your oncologist. Having someone else with you when you are meeting with the doctor is a good idea for many reasons. For example, a support person may remember to ask questions that you forget.

After a cancer diagnosis, you may be on information overload. It can be easy to become overwhelmed with everything. Another set of ears in the room can help you recall information at a later time.

You will likely have a lot of questions about your diagnosis. If possible, record the conversation with your doctor or take notes, so you can refer to it later. Don’t hesitate asking questions. Learning about treatment options and how to manage treatment side effects is critical.

Fear related to a cancer diagnosis is in part caused by the unknown.

While education can be empowering, you may want to stay away from searching online day and night about your disease. You can go overboard reading cancer stories and statistics.

In addition to learning what you can, don’t be afraid to ask for a second opinion. Depending on your insurance coverage, a second opinion consultation is often covered. Even if you trust your doctor, it may be reassuring to get another experts treatment recommendations.

Managing Cancer Side Effects

Cancer treatment can vary and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, targeted therapies and complementary treatment. Some people may develop side effects from certain treatments. It is important to understand, side effects vary widely depending on what type of treatment is administered. Additionally, response to treatment varies considerably, and some people do not experience any side effects.

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When side effects do occur, they also vary in severity. Common side effects of cancer treatment way include hair loss, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. A decrease in immune system function and fatigue are also common side effects of some types of treatment, such as chemotherapy. But there are many options available to help patients deal with side effects. For example, medication may be prescribed, which helps prevent and reduce nausea and vomiting associated with cancer medications.

Complementary therapies, such as meditation, massage, acupressure and guided imagery, may also be helpful in combating certain treatment side effects. Don’t wait until you experience side effects to learn ways to reduce them. Ask your doctor about possible side effects and what you can do to prevent them before you start treatment.   

Coping With Cancer Emotionally

Dealing with a cancer diagnosis does not only involve dealing with the physical issues, but the psychological and emotional ones as well.

Emotional Issues

Most people who are told they have cancer will experience a variety of emotions. It is common to feel afraid and anxious. Shock is also a common emotion, especially if you do not feel sick. It can be hard to believe this is happening to you.

Some people may also feel depressed. While cancer is often curable, it is natural to feel depressed at the possibility of what may be ahead. You may also feel guilty that your loved ones will be worried about you or have to pick up the slack if you don’t feel well. It is also common to feel anger at how unfair a cancer diagnosis is. Some people also feel helpless.

Whatever emotions you feel after a cancer diagnosis, know you are not the first one to feel that way. Accept how you feel is normal and allow yourself some time to come to terms with the diagnosis.

Find healthy ways to express your feelings, such as talking to friends or keeping a journal.  If you are a spiritual person, nurturing this part of your life may also be helpful. Participate in activities, which give you peace, such as meditation and prayer. 

Be sure to get enough rest, eat healthily and exercise when you feel well enough. Living a healthy lifestyle will help you cope with your emotions better. In addition, give yourself permission to cry if you need to and spend some time alone processing your feelings. But try to avoid isolating yourself and dwelling on only your negative emotions.

Caregivers and Cancer

If you have a friend or family member you are helping get through a cancer diagnosis it can be a difficult time for everyone. But there are several ways you can help your loved one cope.

Don’t expect everything to be exactly the same. If you are a caregiver to someone with cancer, life may change in many ways. There may be doctors’ visits, treatment appointments and trips to the pharmacy. In addition, your loved one may not be at their normal level of functioning. An increased amount of chores and responsibilities may come your way. Understating life may be a little different for a while, may help you adjust. 

While your new normal may be a little different than what you are used to, you should encourage your family member to still live their life. Every moment should not be focused on cancer. Encourage participation in recreation activities and spending time together. 

Everyone needs an emotional boost at times, especially someone coping with a cancer diagnosis. 

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Avoid being judgmental and critical. That is the last thing someone dealing with cancer needs. While you may not agree with every decision, there are ways to have a discussion without being critical.

If you are a caregiver to someone with cancer, don’t forget to take care of yourself.  Allow yourself breaks. Get enough rest, and find ways to relax, such as exercise, listening to music or spending time with friends. Becoming rundown because you are overdoing it, won’t help anyone.