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A Cancer and a Sense of Belief

Writer : Dr. Naskan

A Cancer and a Sense of Belief, There are a wide range of emotions that you may not be used to experiencing when you're diagnosed with cancer. It can also amplify the intensity of preexisting feelings. Daily, hourly, or even minute-to-minute, they can change. Even if you're currently in treatment, have completed treatment, or are a friend or family member of someone in treatment, this is true. All of this is perfectly normal.

The values you learned as a child can have a significant impact on how you deal with cancer. As an illustration, there are those who:

  • As a result, they feel compelled to be strong and defend their loved ones.
  • Seek help from loved ones or other cancer survivors, and don't be afraid to ask.
  • Seek the assistance of professionals such as therapists or other mentors.
  • As a last resort, they can turn to religion for support.

It's important to do what's best for you and not to compare yourself to others, whatever your decision may be. Some of your feelings may be shared by your loved ones and friends. If you're at ease doing so, share this information with your friends.

The Emotional Support for Young People with Cancer page has more information for those suffering from cancer who are in their teens or early 20s.

Overwhelmed

Normal to feel like your life is out of control when you first learn that you have cancer. This may be due to the following reasons:

  • You begin to doubt your own survival.
  • Doctors' appointments and treatments interrupt your daily routine.
  • You don't understand the medical terms that people use.
  • Because of your condition, it feels like you can't do what you enjoy.
  • There is nothing you can do to alleviate your sense of helplessness and isolation.

No matter how out of control you feel, you can still take back control. The more you know about your cancer, the better. Your sense of control will increase as your knowledge grows. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor questions and to express your confusion.

A lot of people find it easier to keep themselves occupied. If you're feeling up to it, consider engaging in hobbies like music, art, or reading.

Anger

Asking, "Why me?" And it's perfectly normal to become enraged at the cancer. You may also be enraged or resentful of the people closest to you who are healthy, such as your doctors and family members. Anger at God may even be a part of your religious experience.

It's difficult to express one's feelings when one is angry, and this leads to an outburst. But these are not the only examples:

  • fear
  • panic
  • frustration
  • anxiety
  • helplessness

Angry people don't have to pretend everything is fine. Keeping it inside isn't good for you. Discuss your rage with those you care about. Request a recommendation for a counselor from your physician. It's important to remember that anger can spur you on to action.

As a result of apprehension and anxiety

It's scary to hear that you have cancer. You may be afraid or worried about:

  • A cancer diagnosis is a terrifying one. There are a number of things you may be concerned about: being in pain, either because of your cancer or the treatment, or because you look or feel different because of your treatment.
  • keeping a job while you die

Many people's fears about cancer are unfounded or stem from misinformation. Fears and worries are often relieved by being well-informed. Having the facts in front of you can make most people feel better about themselves. As a result, they are less afraid and more prepared. Get educated about your cancer and what you can do to be an active participant in your own treatment plans. Those who are well-informed about their illness and treatment are more likely to adhere to their treatment regimens and experience a quicker recovery from cancer.

Hope

It's common for people to feel hopeful after accepting that they've been diagnosed with cancer There are numerous reasons to be optimistic. There are millions of cancer survivors still around today. You have better chances of living with cancer and living beyond it than ever before. And cancer patients are able to maintain a healthy lifestyle, even while undergoing treatment.

Hope, according to some medical professionals, may aid your body's fight against cancer. So, researchers are looking into whether a hopeful outlook and a positive attitude can help alleviate the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Here are a few ideas for rekindling your faith:

  • Plan your days in the same way you've always done..
  • Don't let the fact that you have cancer prevent you from doing the things you enjoy.
  • Consider the positive aspects of your situation. Write them down or discuss them with others if that helps.
  • Spend time outdoors.
  • Consider your spiritual or religious beliefs.
  • Listen to the stories of people with cancer who are still able to lead full and productive lives.

Moodiness and Anxiety

Stress is normal during and after treatment because of the many life changes you are experiencing. Anxiety is a state of mind in which you are unable to unwind and are constantly tense. That's something you may have noticed:

  • Suddenly, your heart is racing.
  • You're suffering from tension headaches or aches and pains all over.
  • You're not in the mood to eat. You can also eat more.
  • Diarrhea or a churning stomach are common symptoms.
  • A shaky, dizzy or weak feeling.
  • In your throat and chest, you feel a tenseness.
  • Depending on how much or little sleep you get, it's affecting your health.
  • You're having trouble concentrating.

Consult your physician if you experience any of these emotions. To be safe, it's best to rule out the possibility that these symptoms could be related to medication or treatment.

Stress can impede your body's ability to heal.

Ask your doctor for a referral to a counselor if you're concerned about your stress. You could also enroll in a stress management class. The most important thing is to learn how to manage your stress rather than letting it control you.

Depression and Sadness

Many cancer patients are depressed. As a result of the disease, they feel a sense of loss for their health and the life they had prior to it. Even after treatment is over, you may still feel depressed. In the event of a serious illness, this is a common reaction. It may take some time to process and come to terms with all of the alterations that are occurring.

A lack of energy, tiredness, or even a desire to eat are all symptoms of sadness. This is not always the case for everyone. However, for some, these feelings can become even more pronounced. It doesn't get better, and it gets in the way of everyday life. Depression may be the cause of this. Many people are unaware that depression is a diagnosable medical condition that can be remedied with the right medications. Cancer treatment may have contributed to this issue by altering the functioning of the brain.

Becoming Depressed and Seeking Help

Depression can be alleviated with medication. Some of the more common symptoms of depression include the ones listed below. Talk to your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms for more than two weeks. You should talk to your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they don't go away.

Suggestive signs of an emotional state:

  • sadness that never fades away
  • fearful or anxious about one's emotional well-being feeling guilty or unworthy, as if one's life has no meaning or purpose
  • short-tempered and irritable
  • grieving for long periods of time or frequently throughout the course of the day, focusing on worries and problems
  • depressed and unable to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, such as eating or spending time with loved ones, because of thoughts of self-harm and suicide

Body changes:

  • unexpected weight gain or loss not related to illness or treatment sleep issues such as insomnia, night terrors, or sleeping excessively changes in energy levels fatigue that won't go away headaches and other aches and pains rapid heartbeat

If your doctor suspects that you are depressed, they may prescribe medication to help you relax. Alternatively, they could make recommendations for you to other professionals. You don't have to be the one in charge of your emotions. Get the help you need, and you'll be happier and healthier in the long run.

Guilt

If you're struggling with guilt, you're not alone. You may think you're a burden to the people you care about or that you're to blame for their annoyance. As a result, you may be embarrassed by your feelings of envy for others' good health. You may even place the blame for your cancer on your own lifestyle choices.

It's important to remember that cancer isn't something you caused. Voicing your thoughts and feelings may help you cope. If you'd prefer to meet with a therapist or attend a support group, tell your doctor. Here are some more ideas:

Loneliness

Loneliness and isolation are common feelings for people with cancer. It's possible that a variety of variables are at play here:

  • Friends who are dealing with cancer may neglect to pay you a visit or make a phone call.
  • You may no longer be able to participate in the activities you used to enjoy because of your illness.
  • Even when you're surrounded by people you care about, it's possible to feel alone in your struggles.

After treatment, it's normal to feel isolated and alone. It's possible that you'll miss the support you received from your medical team. Everyone feels like they've been taken out of the loop, like their safety net has been snatched away. For those who have lost touch with loved ones, it's not uncommon to still feel isolated. There are those who may assume that since your treatment is over, you'll be back to normal in no time. Others may be eager to help but unsure of how to proceed.

Emotional assistance can come in many forms. Talking to others who have cancer or joining a support group may be beneficial to you. A trusted friend, family member, counselor, or member of your religious or spiritual community may be the best choice for you if you prefer to speak with someone more private. Do what makes you happy.

Gratitude

Cancer can serve as a "wake-up call" for some people. These people understand the importance of savoring the simple pleasures of life. To places they've never been before, they travel. Rather than putting things off, they finish what they had started but put on hold. Spending time with family and friends has increased. They help mend shattered interpersonal relationships.

If you've been diagnosed with cancer, it may be difficult at first, but you can still find joy in your life. Pay attention to the little things that bring you joy throughout the day. They can be as simple as enjoying a cup of coffee with a friend, spending time with a child, or simply chatting with a close friend on the phone.

Things that are more personal, like spending time in nature or praying in a place that has special meaning to you, are also options. Playing a sport you enjoy, or preparing a delicious meal, could also be a form of self-expression. Make the most of the things in your life that bring you happiness whenever possible.

Your Emotions and How to Manage Them

Feel free to share your thoughts and feelings.

It has been found that people are more able to let go of strong emotions like anger or sadness if they express them. Friends or family, other cancer survivors, a support group, or a counselor can help some people deal with their emotions after being diagnosed. If you don't want to discuss your cancer with others, you can still sort out your feelings by writing them down or thinking about them.

Think Optimistic Thoughts

In some cases, this means focusing on the positive aspects of a situation rather than dwelling on the negative. Consider how you can stay as healthy as possible by focusing on what you can do now.

Don't Hold It Against Yourself

There are some people who believe that their cancer was caused by something they either did or didn't do. Scientists, on the other hand, are baffled as to why some people develop cancer while others do not. Every individual's body is unique. Remember that cancer can strike anyone at any point in their lives.

If you're not feeling optimistic, don't try to pretend you are.

It's common to hear people say they'd like the ability to express their emotions without fear of repercussion. Cancer patients often tell their loved ones that they're having a "bad cancer day" and then retreat to their bedrooms for some alone time.

It's your decision when to discuss your cancer.

As a cancer patient, it can be difficult for others to understand what you're going through. Often, people who care about you don't know what to say or how to act when you're feeling down. Asking them about their thoughts and feelings can help put them at ease.

Make Efforts to De-Stress

Take some time to do something that relaxes you, whatever that may be. Many people have found that meditative practices, such as guided imagery and relaxation exercises, can help them relax when they are feeling anxious.

Don't Be a Slacker!

When you get out of the house and do something, it is easier to put cancer and your fears in perspective. In addition, gentle yoga and stretching can be beneficial.

Find activities that you enjoy.

Reading, writing, or crafting may be some of your favorite pastimes. Or, explore other forms of expression like art, film, music, or dance.

Think about what you can influence.

Putting one's life in order may help some people. Making changes to your diet and exercising regularly are examples of things you can control when it comes to your health. Setting a daily schedule can help you feel more in control of your own life. Despite the fact that no one has complete control over their thoughts, some say they try to avoid dwelling on the negative ones and instead focus on the things that make life worth living.

 


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