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Learning that you have cancer is one of the most stressful and concerning experiences an individual can have, regardless of whether or not it is a particularly serious development or form of cancer. When you do get this diagnosis, it might take a while for you to process the news; during this time, there are several things to consider that could make your new normal easier to manage. In this post, we’ll discuss ways to help you cope with a cancer diagnosis.
Get the Facts
One of the most important steps you can take at this stage is to get informed on as many of the basic facts as possible about your diagnosis. Although knowing more can seem scary, it also empowers you to make the right decisions and can actually help you feel more at peace in the long run. You should seek to find out from your healthcare provider about the kind of cancer you have, where it is, whether it has spread, and whether or not it can be treated. If it can be treated, inquire about your treatment plan and any side effects that you should expect. The more you find out, the better.
Keep Communication Open
Good communication with your healthcare providers and family and friends will be beneficial to you as you navigate life with cancer. Having someone to talk to can help ease your worries and boost your spirits, and keeping the lines of communication open means that any struggles you’re facing can be noticed and addressed. You might also consider speaking with other people with similar diagnoses to hear their experiences, or you might join a support group or attend therapy to help you talk through your feelings.
Seek Different Care Options
You should bear in mind that you are always free to seek out different care options – that does not necessarily mean trying alternative therapies, although of course that is your prerogative. It does mean looking at other oncology treatment centers that might be in your neck of the woods, just to make sure that you know what your options are in general. If you do your research, you can make the best informed decision, and you don’t simply have to stick with the provider that you currently have if you don’t want to.
Expect Emotions
There will be a range of emotions that you are going to be swept up with, and you should brace yourself for those as best as you can. The more prepared you are to feel a range of different feelings at any stage during your diagnosis, the less it will take you by surprise. You should expect to experience a lot of extreme emotions, from fear and sadness to anxiety and anger – that is perfectly normal, and something that is very human. Just remember to be kind to yourself during this time, and if possible, lean on your support system to help you carry on when you’re feeling down.