A cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming thing. There’s a lot to deal with and wrestling back control of your mental health can feel difficult.
You may experience a range of emotions and physical side effects such as Footnote [1]:
- Shock
- Anger
- Fear
- Denial
- Anxiety and/or depression
- Fatigue or lack of sleep
The future may also seem uncertain, for you and your loved ones, but getting the right support for your mental health can give you strength.
Talking helps
Suppressing your feelings following a cancer diagnosis can make you feel worse.
The emotional support from loved ones can make a huge difference to your wellbeing
Opening up to someone you know and trust can be a good way to get things off your chest. The emotional support from loved ones can make a huge difference to your wellbeing. It can also help them understand what you’re going through and let them support you better.
Why not try online?
Sometimes a fellow cancer patient or survivor can also be a good person to talk to. Someone who’s been through or is going through the same thing as you is likely to understand your feelings and perspective. Online forums and support groups, such as the ones offered by Macmillan, can be a good place to discuss anything and everything about living with cancer. There are also plenty of in-person support groups you can try.
Use the professionals
You’re going to have plenty of questions about cancer and your treatment – don’t be afraid to ask them. Doctors. Nurses. They’re there to help, whether answering questions or just listening to you unload anything you need to unload.
If your mental health is really getting you down and you want to speak to a mental health professional, then you have lots of options. Your GP practice or your cancer doctor or nurse will be able to point you in the right direction, whether it’s therapy or a support group.
Cancer Charities
Charities, such as Macmillan Cancer Support, are also incredibly resourceful when it comes to helping cancer patients with their mental health. They know all the best routes to go down and can provide advice, resources, helplines, support groups, and help with many other aspects of living with cancer.
Look after your physical health
A cancer diagnosis can feel like you’ve lost control of your health. However, many of the same rules that applied to your physical wellbeing before your diagnosis still apply after it.
Taking a healthy approach to living can not only give your body the best chance of responding to treatment but can also provide a boost to your mental health.
You should consider Footnote [1]:
- Eating well
- Getting enough sleep
- Exercising regularly
- Avoiding drinking too much*
- Stopping smoking*
A healthy body can equal a healthy mind, so never underestimate the power of exercise, relaxation, and a balanced diet.
*For help with reducing alcohol consumption and stopping smoking, speak to your GP, doctors or nurses.
