Diagnosis and treatment of cancer affect in many ways the lives of patient, family and loved ones. Common reactions immediately after the diagnosis are emotional trauma and denial, frequently followed by depression, anxiety and/or anger.

Despite decades of combating the illness, cancer remains significant health issue that is yet to be cured completely. 

The mental agony of knowing there is a tumor inside your body is more than that you could process. To you, the idea of having cancer is insurmountable and inescapable. This very thought is sufficient enough to make you fearful and anxious.

Yes, just as cancer affects your physical health, it can impact your mental health too. It can make your feelings intense, and they may change daily, hourly, or even minute to minute.  The psychological effects of cancer on both patients and survivors are always complex.

You might be sad, anxious, lonely and confused. What happened to you is a big problem, so you can expect such negative emotions. You might experience moments of sadness, grief, or lack of hope. This “emotional roller-coaster “ is considered a normal response to a stressful event. 

With the diagnosis of cancer, it’s obvious to feel out of control. Your normal routine get disrupted by doctor’s visits and treatment. You get concern about time left with you. You feel guilty about things that you can’t enjoy. You feel helpless and lonely. 

It’s very normal to feel sad while accepting all the changes taking in you physical and mental sphere. The complications of cancer and side-effects of medicines can affect your emotions.

Feeling  worried about painful treatment sessions, looking different or sick, and being afraid of dying become a common scenario. There is a threat to your general sense of security and orderliness in life as you have to deal with ongoing uncertainty about your future and unpredictable course of disease. 

The associated anxiety often comes with strong physical feelings like a racing heart, feeling sick, or getting very hot and cold. You might have scary thoughts at the same time. Unfortunately, such feelings make things worse.

Whatever the type of cancer, as a patient you are going to experience stress with all the life changes you’re going through. Often overlooked issues are financial and social problems due to higher treatment cost, inability to get emotional support, keeping your job, or finding it hard to complete daily routine.

People undergoing cancer treatment may lose their hair, experience weight changes, get surgical scars or have body parts surgically altered/ removed. As a cancer survivor if you experienced amputations, disfigurement or significant changes in your body, you experience a lack of self-esteem. A negative body image can affect your desire for social interaction too. 

Living with cancer can mean coming to terms with what’s happened and how different your life will be in the future. It will change your way to live your life. It could also affect your friends and family. It can change the way you see yourself as a person, your place within family, and society.

These overwhelming emotions can reduce your ability to effectively engage in holistic care during the treatment process.

While navigating the challenges of cancer, the potential for recurrence is major threat to a survivor. You might be feeling vulnerable, or worried about recurrence. 

When you feel threatened about your survival, your stress level naturally goes up. Cancer can alter your future planning because you are not sure what will happen with you. 

Any serious health problem can impact your life. Having cancer is no different.

Finding hope

Although you are suffering from cancer, there are many reasons to feel hopeful. Millions of people who have had cancer are alive today. With modern medical treatment, your chances of living with cancer are better now. And you will be glad to know that people with cancer can lead active lives. 

Your emotional responses can influence survival and quality of life. While getting treatment for the physical aspects of cancer, you should not neglect the emotional issues associated with the disease.

The first step in coping with emotional issue is accepting that you have cancer and building courage to reach out for help. Therapy, support groups, social media and community resources are available to help you cope with psychological issue.

Staying well-informed about your illness and treatment allow you to follow proper treatment plans and recover well. One of the best things you can do is to learn more about the disease process. This can make the disease seem less mysterious and fearful. Learning more about the disease makes you feel empowered and gives you a sense of control.

Also Check : Be Okay With Uncertainty

Having a realistic attitude and realizing that cancer can impact several aspects of life is helpful. Remember that having cancer is not your fault. Cancer can happen to anyone. 

See your cancer as a “wake-up call” and realize the importance of enjoying the little things in life. Go to places you have never been or spend more time with you family and friends. Building a good social support and openly expressing your thoughts and feelings has been associated with lower levels of stress and anxiety. 

Also Check : Transforming Anxiety Into Hope

Your feelings usually get better with time and support. Being connected is important for your general health. 

Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies can help improve mental well-being.

Cancer, in fact any medical illness, doesn’t have to be the end of your happiness. There’s a lot you can do to help yourself. 

Disclaimer

Mediclin Brain Health’s content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.