It is common to experience a mix of emotions before or after a cancer diagnosis. For example, you might experience worry and fear as you await results. Following a cancer diagnosis, you may feel shocked, angry, or numb, which could evolve into anxiety, sadness, or dread.
After all, you might feel worried about your future, apprehensive about treatment, or concerned about how the news will impact your loved ones. Dealing with one or more intense emotions might not feel easy at first, but various tactics can protect your mental and physical health moving forward. Read the following advice for navigating the emotional journey of a cancer diagnosis.
Express Your Emotions
It is natural for your emotions to go up and down following a cancer diagnosis. One moment, you might feel hopeful; the next, you could feel angry, tearful, or anxious for the future. Rather than pushing your feelings down, you must find ways to express them.
Don't bottle up your frustration, anger, or sadness. Accept your emotions instead of rejecting them, as it may make it easier to navigate this difficult time. For instance, confide in a partner, friend, relative, or counselor about how you're feeling. If you don't feel ready to talk, writing a journal to articulate your feelings on paper might be helpful.
Face Your Fears
While some people might prefer to learn as little as possible about cancer, others might want to gain an in-depth understanding to feel a sense of control of their lives. For example, they might want to learn as much as possible about lymphoma symptoms and causes, which could help them advocate for their health with a doctor.
Only you will know the best approach for you following a cancer diagnosis. Facing your fears can help set realistic expectations in your mind and make more informed decisions. Yet, you might prefer to follow a doctor's recommendations and avoid researching the disease, and that's your choice.
Regardless, you shouldn't be afraid to discuss any fears or concerns you have with your loved ones, healthcare team, a counselor, or a member of the clergy. The act of talking can help you face your fears, too, and you could take comfort from a listening ear, helpful advice, or words of wisdom.
Seek Mental Health Support
Mental health support is available for those who need it, especially for people who have received a cancer diagnosis. Many options are available to suit people's varying needs and protect their mental health at every stage.
If you're unsure where to find mental health support, talk to your cancer team about the options available near you, which might vary from local support groups to talking therapy. Also, many cancer charities provide resources and support groups to help those with a specific type of cancer, such as lymphoma, breast cancer, or leukemia. The more open and honest you are about your feelings during this time, the easier it might be to manage them and adopt a more positive mindset.
Author Bio:
Dan L is a dedicated follower of the latest self-care strategies and research, following trends across the sector diligently. With over a decade of experience in freelance writing for the health niche, he is also passionate about alternative medicine and the change it has on people's lives.
