Anyone who is diagnosed with cancer — and their close friends and family as well — is strongly affected by this news. It is as important to monitor your mental health during treatment as it is to closely monitor your physical health.
Do you tend to worry more now that cancer is a reality? It is important to focus on what is within your control. For example, consider journaling or writing down your thoughts and feelings. It also helps to actually schedule a time to worry. It may be helpful to allow yourself to experience distress in manageable doses – for example for five minutes at a time. This way you choose what you are thinking about, when it takes place and for how long. You maintain some degree of control even when circumstances can be overwhelming.
Many people benefit from worry time. Set aside five to 10 minutes a couple of hours before you go to bed in which you allow yourself to “worry” or think about the things that typically run through your mind when you lie down for bed. This way you are still in a position to do something about it (if possible) and you choose the time instead of letting intrusive thoughts creep into your mind at bedtime. This can be empowering because you deal with the “worries” at a specific time and ideally stop them from disrupting your sleep.
What has helped you cope with stress in the past? Revisit ways of coping that have been effective for you in the past. You may wish to focus on self-expression during your cancer journey. Do certain movies, music or poetry writings bring you peace and comfort? Have you previously enjoyed crocheting or needlework or always wanted to try it? These activities may include things you do alone as well as activities with other people.
Do not put your wellness on hold. Many people with cancer say to themselves, “I’ll get to it when I feel better” when considering their “to-do list” including practical matters and wellness activities. In many cases it is appropriate to put certain things on hold. For example, this may not be the best time to begin a diet.
In other cases, however, putting things “on hold” can increase distress and the likelihood of feeling overwhelmed. It is important to focus on your wellness throughout your cancer journey.
Stressors can build up (bills, lack of adequate rest, exercise or a balanced diet) and become overwhelming and create a negative cycle. People in your support system (one that is already established or that is newly gained) will likely be honored to partake in your wellness in the midst of a serious illness.
