Learning you have cancer is life-altering news. It’s natural to feel a wave of emotions – anxiety, fear, and overwhelming uncertainty are common first responses. Knowing how to navigate these initial stages and plan your next steps can significantly ease the stress during this challenging time. Here are expert-backed strategies to help you effectively deal with a cancer diagnosis and empower you throughout your journey.
1. Empower Yourself with Knowledge About Your Cancer
Knowledge is a powerful tool when facing cancer. Understanding the specifics of your diagnosis will empower you to actively participate in decisions about your care. Don’t hesitate to seek detailed information.
Prepare a list of questions and concerns to bring to your appointments with your healthcare provider. These questions might include:
- What type of cancer do I have?
- Where is the cancer located?
- Has the cancer spread to other parts of my body (metastasized)?
- Is my cancer treatable?
- What is the likelihood of a cure for my cancer?
- What further tests or procedures are needed?
- What are my treatment options?
- How will each treatment option benefit me?
- What can I expect during treatment?
- What are the potential side effects of treatment?
- When should I contact my healthcare provider with concerns?
- What steps can I take to prevent cancer recurrence?
- Is there a hereditary risk for my children or other family members?
- What are the potential consequences if I choose not to undergo treatment?
Consider bringing a trusted family member or friend to your initial appointments. They can provide emotional support and help you remember the information discussed.
Reflect on your preferred level of involvement in the information gathering process. Some individuals prefer to know every detail to feel in control and participate actively in decision-making. Others prefer a broader understanding, trusting their healthcare team with the specifics. Communicate your preferences to your healthcare team so they can best support your needs.
2. Open Communication is Key to Support
Honest and open communication is vital – with your loved ones, your healthcare team, and yourself. Isolation can intensify feelings of fear and anxiety. If those around you avoid discussing your diagnosis to “protect” you, or if you try to appear strong by suppressing your emotions, it can create emotional distance. Sharing your genuine feelings allows for mutual support and strengthens your relationships during this challenging time.
3. Prepare for Potential Physical Changes
Anticipating potential physical changes associated with cancer treatment is crucial. Planning ahead, ideally right after your diagnosis and before starting treatment, can help you manage these changes more effectively.
Consult your healthcare provider about possible physical changes you may experience. For instance, certain medications can cause hair loss. Resources and expert advice on clothing, makeup, wigs, and hairpieces can help you feel more comfortable and maintain your self-esteem. It’s worth noting that insurance coverage often assists with the costs of wigs and other adaptive aids.
Joining a cancer support group can be incredibly beneficial. Members can share practical tips and personal experiences that have helped them and others navigate similar physical changes.
Furthermore, consider how treatment might impact your daily life. Discuss with your provider whether you will be able to continue your normal routine. Treatment might involve hospital stays or frequent medical appointments. If treatment is likely to interfere with your daily responsibilities, start making arrangements now.
Plan for potential financial implications. Organize support for routine household tasks. If you have pets, arrange for their care. Proactive planning in these areas can alleviate stress and ensure you have the support you need.
4. Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle to Enhance Well-being
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is not just beneficial for overall health, but can significantly improve your energy levels and coping abilities during cancer treatment. Prioritize a nutritious diet and ensure you get adequate rest. These lifestyle choices are vital for managing the stress and fatigue that can accompany cancer and its treatment.
Strive for a consistent daily routine if possible. Schedule time each day for exercise, sufficient sleep, and regular meals.
Exercise and engaging in enjoyable activities can be particularly helpful. Studies have shown that individuals who exercise during cancer treatment not only manage side effects more effectively but may also experience improved long-term outcomes.
5. Accept Support from Friends and Family
Allow your friends and family to offer practical assistance. They can help with errands, transportation to appointments, meal preparation, and household chores. Accepting help not only eases your burden but also provides your loved ones with a meaningful way to contribute during a difficult period.
Encourage your family members to also accept help if needed. A cancer diagnosis impacts the entire family unit, adding stress, particularly for primary caregivers. Accepting offers of help with meals or chores from neighbors or friends can prevent caregiver burnout and ensure everyone receives the support they need.
6. Re-evaluate Your Goals and Priorities
A cancer diagnosis often prompts a re-evaluation of what truly matters in life. Take time to identify activities that are most meaningful and bring you joy. Prioritize these activities and consider reducing commitments that no longer align with your current goals.
Be open and honest with your loved ones about your thoughts and feelings. Cancer affects all your relationships. Open communication can significantly reduce the anxiety and fear associated with cancer and strengthen your bonds with those closest to you.
7. Strive to Maintain Your Normal Lifestyle
While adapting to changes is necessary, try to maintain aspects of your normal lifestyle as much as possible. Take each day as it comes. During stressful times, it’s easy to lose sight of the present moment. When the future feels uncertain, planning and organization can feel overwhelming. Focus on the day-to-day to manage stress and maintain a sense of normalcy.
8. Consider the Financial Impact of Your Diagnosis
A cancer diagnosis can bring unexpected financial challenges. Treatment may require time away from work, and there are costs associated with medications, medical equipment, travel for treatment, and hospital parking.
Many clinics and hospitals maintain lists of resources to assist with financial concerns during and after cancer treatment. Discuss your financial situation and concerns with your healthcare team.
Questions to consider asking include:
- Will I need to take time off work? If so, how will it affect my employment benefits?
- Will my family members need to take time off work to support me?
- Will my insurance cover the costs of my treatments?
- Will my insurance cover prescription medications?
- What will be my out-of-pocket expenses?
- If my insurance doesn’t cover treatment costs, are there programs that can offer financial assistance?
- Do I qualify for disability benefits?
- How does my diagnosis affect my life insurance?
- Who should I contact to discuss my insurance coverage in detail?
9. Connect with Others Who Understand
It can be challenging for those who haven’t experienced cancer to fully grasp what you’re going through. Talking to others who have faced cancer can provide invaluable support and understanding. Cancer survivors can share their experiences, offer practical advice, and help you understand what to expect during treatment.
Reach out to friends or family members who are cancer survivors. Connect with support groups to meet other individuals navigating similar journeys. Your healthcare provider can provide information about local support groups. Organizations like the American Cancer Society and online platforms such as the Cancer Survivors Network offer communities for connection and support.
You can also seek guidance from friends or neighbors who have managed serious illnesses. Ask them about their coping strategies and how they navigated complex challenges.
10. Challenge Cancer Stigmas
Despite progress in understanding cancer, outdated stigmas can still exist. Friends may mistakenly believe cancer is contagious. Coworkers might question your ability to perform your job duties. Some individuals may avoid contact due to discomfort or fear of saying the wrong thing. Many people will have questions and concerns based on misinformation or outdated beliefs.
Decide how you want to address these stigmas. Your approach often sets the tone for others. Gently remind friends that cancer is not contagious and reassure colleagues about your capabilities. Open communication can help dispel misconceptions and foster a supportive environment.
11. Develop Your Personal Coping Strategies
Just as every cancer journey is unique, so are individual coping mechanisms. Explore different strategies to find what works best for you. Consider these ideas:
- Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to manage stress.
- Share your feelings openly with family, friends, a spiritual advisor, or a counselor.
- Keep a journal to organize your thoughts, track your emotions, and process your experiences.
- When facing difficult decisions, create lists of pros and cons for each option to aid clarity.
- Seek spiritual support if it provides comfort and strength.
- Dedicate time for solitude and reflection.
- Remain engaged in work and leisure activities as much as you are able to maintain a sense of normalcy.
- Learn to say no to requests that feel overwhelming. This is a time to prioritize your well-being and focus on your needs.
Reflect on what has helped you navigate challenging times in the past. Whether it’s a close friend, a spiritual leader, or a cherished hobby, turn to these sources of comfort now. Be open to exploring new coping strategies as you navigate your cancer journey.
It’s important to remember that you are not alone. Resources and support are available to help you deal with a cancer diagnosis and navigate each step of your journey.
References
- Taking time: Support for people with cancer. National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/patient-education/taking-time. Accessed July 29, 2022.
- Rock CL, et al. American Cancer Society nutrition and physical activity guidelines for cancer survivors. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 2022; doi:10.3322/caac.21719.
- Physical activity and cancer. National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/obesity/physical-activity-fact-sheet. Accessed July 29, 2022.
- Questions to ask your health care team. Cancer.net. https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/diagnosing-cancer/questions-ask-your-health-care-team. Accessed Aug. 4, 2022.
