Receiving a cancer diagnosis is an emotional rollercoaster. It’s life changing, habit breaking, and enormously stressful. But it’s also a critical moment to prioritize your mental health, as it will play a crucial role in your overall well-being during this challenging time. While there will be many doctor appointments and treatments over the coming months, it is vital to seek psychological support alongside your medical treatments.
It’s likely your diagnosis will start as a shock and you’ll be in disbelief. Denial is often the first thought, and it’s a common reaction alongside numbness and difficulty accepting this new reality. Anxiety, due to the uncertainty of your future, the strain of treatment, as well as the blunt fear of death can trigger tremendous sadness and depression, as well as feelings of guilt and worry for your family and friends – and even resentment for others who are not burdened with your diagnosis.
These feelings are all normal and part of the human experience. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed; if anything, it reiterates your need to prioritize mental health support during this time.
Behr Psychology offers a collective of mental health professionals who have diverse experiences, approaches, and abilities – finding the right fit for you is your first step to securing worthwhile and lasting mental health support. In addition to a professional, support groups offer opportunities to bond with others sharing your struggle, and family and friends should not be discounted as a core piece of your support system. Through it all, no matter your situation, you do not have to face this journey alone, nor should you.
Coping with these stresses is critical to managing anxiety and your spectrum of emotions. Mindfulness and meditation is a wonderful resource that anyone can explore, regardless of location, insurance coverage, or financial means. Similarly, breathing techniques, journaling, and exercise are all beneficial strategies to improve both your mental and physical health as you pursue treatment and manage your diagnosis. Rather than pining for a magic pill to change your perspective, remember that small, manageable steps can lead to significant improvements in your emotional well-being.
Nevertheless, a cancer diagnosis is serious, and it’s neither fair nor reasonable to put pressure onto yourself to simply feel better, even with all of the support and resources available. Cancer patients often develop clinical depression, and certain warning signs are key to monitor: loss of interest, changes in appetite or sleep habits, and prolonged sadness to name a few. In addition to many of the aforementioned strategies, it’s important to consider and discuss psychological treatments like cognitive behavior therapy, as well as medical interventions such as antidepressants or other medications.
The stigma around mental health has for too long discouraged those in need of support from seeking it. Just like a cancer diagnosis, depression is a treatable disease, and seeking help is a brave important first step.
Harness that positive energy and be kind to yourself during these ups and downs. Negative self-talk can worsen your mental health. That’s why inner strength is so vital; not just to persevere through tremendous challenges, but to have compassion for yourself during this healing journey. Your feelings will be volatile, just as your health will face the ups and downs of diagnosis, treatment, side effects, and recovery. But positive affirmations and a mindset focused on building confidence and mental resilience will help you help yourself through these difficult moments. Rest, grieve, and ask for help when you need it, don’t punish yourself.
And as you take those moments for yourself, you must maintain hope and a belief in your purpose. Anchor yourself to your life – your family, friends, and the things you love. No matter how small, the small things are worth celebrating. Moments that bring you joy are wonderful healing opportunities.
Likewise, incremental progress is also something to celebrate. Progress is not a straight line; it is a winding road with peaks and valleys. Every good day is an opportunity to reflect – and this emphasizes how journaling can be so powerful as a healing tool. For those who are spiritual or religious, those moments too can serve as comforting, peaceful opportunities for mindful reflection and celebration. Remember, there is hope, and even ephemeral moments of joy will support you as you navigate the emotional challenges of cancer treatment.
Behr Psychology is here to be your resource throughout this difficult journey. Your emotions are valid, and wherever you are today, know that tomorrow brings a new day. You are unique, you are valued, and you will persevere through this tough time.
