8 Tips for Coping with a Cancer Diagnosis

Discovering that you or a loved one has cancer can strike fear (and many other emotions) into even the bravest person. It changes your life and the lives of those around you. The symptoms and side effects of cancer and many of its treatments can cause physical changes and affect how you think and feel.

The good news is that you are not alone, and there are steps you can take to help you and your loved ones cope better with your cancer diagnosis.

8 Tips for Coping with a Cancer Diagnosis

1. Get the Facts
   Some people diagnosed with cancer want to know every detail possible to be more involved in their care and treatment. Others want to know just the basics and leave more of the decision-making process to their healthcare providers. Think about how you feel, let your doctors know, and then act accordingly.
   
   Either way, you may want a friend or family member to come to your appointments to help you remember and clarify what the healthcare team tells you. Maybe take notes, or ask the person with you to take notes so you can concentrate on what your healthcare provider is saying.
   
   The National Cancer Institute provides a list of questions you may want to ask your healthcare providers regarding your diagnosis, treatment, and more.
   
   
2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
   A healthy lifestyle helps your body function at its best, which is even more critical if you have been diagnosed with cancer. Healthy eating, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can help improve your energy level, reduce fatigue, and manage stress.
   
   
3. Consider the Impact on Your Finances
   A cancer diagnosis can have a significant impact on your finances. You may have medical expenses or incur additional costs if you need to travel for treatment. You may lose some of your income because you have to go to doctors’ appointments, go for treatment, or not feel well enough to work.
   
   Ask your healthcare team about options, as many hospitals provide a list of resources to help you financially during and after treatment.
   
   
4. Keep Up with Your Daily Routine
   The National Cancer Institute recommends keeping up with your daily routine if you feel well enough. That includes spending time with friends and family, participating in activities, and working.
   
   
5. Communicate With Your Loved Ones
   A cancer diagnosis doesn’t just affect you; it affects those who love and care about you. They’re probably dealing with their own emotions about the diagnosis, and open communication allows you to support each other. Share your feelings with them, and show your real emotions.
   
   
6. Talk to Other People with Cancer
   It can be difficult for people who don’t have cancer to understand what you are going through, so it’s a good idea to speak with cancer survivors – friends, family, neighbors, a support group – who can share their experiences, tell you what to expect, and offer advice.
   
   
7. Accept Support
   You don’t have to do this alone. If friends, family, co-workers, your church, or neighbors want to help, let them. They can run errands, prepare meals, etc. Ask your healthcare provider for a list of resources. Reach out to Comforting Home Care for information on our Cancer Home Recovery Services if you need additional help.
   
   
8. Develop Ways to Deal with Cancer
   Everyone deals with a cancer diagnosis differently, so you must determine what works best for you. Consider discussing it with your healthcare team. Here are some ways to deal with cancer:

• Keep a journal
• Find spiritual support
• Find a support group
• Learn to meditate
• Take up yoga
• Listen to music
• Write three things you’re grateful for every day
• Watch funny movies

Fight Cancer on Your Home Turf

Comforting Home Care by Phoebe allows cancer patients to recover at home instead of a hospital or rehabilitation facility. Treatments can be physically and mentally draining, and most people feel more relaxed in their homes. Sometimes, a little help, even for just a few weeks, is enough to give patients and their families the peace of mind they need.

Contact us today at 610-625-5206 to learn more about our Cancer Home Recovery Services or connect with us online.