Post by Deanne Jenkyns on Jun 25, 2007 22:17:05 GMT 1
Adjusting emotionally
A diagnosis of cancer, treatment and the physical effects of this inevitably have an emotional effect. For many people coping with the fear of the cancer coming back and uncertainty about the future is the hardest part of finishing treatment. During treatment you may feel that something is being ‘done’ against the cancer. It is also often a very busy period. All your concentration and energy on a day-to-day basis is focused on coping with various appointments, treatments and side effects.
When treatment ends it is natural to have feelings of insecurity and anxiety. You will have more time to think about the possibility of recurrence and it may feel as though there is nothing now ‘fighting’ your disease. Many people worry that every ache or pain they experience is a sign that the cancer has returned or is progressing. They sometimes hold back from contacting their doctors or nurses due to fear of bothering them. If a symptom does persist and you are concerned, talk to your medical or nursing team. They are very used to dealing with such queries and supporting patients.
People can often experience isolation when treatment ends. This may be because you have less contact with nurses, doctors and fellow patients. You may also find that family and friends don’t realise that you are struggling with fears and anxieties. Partners, relatives and friends may stop talking about the cancer and treat it as past history.
One way to explore this is to spend some time identifying who can provide what (practical, emotional, financial, social and spiritual support) within your network of friends and family. Some people prefer to attend a support group to meet others with similar experiences and to hear how they have coped.
Don’t expect to feel positive 100 per cent of the time. Certain events may set off your worries and anxiety all over again. You may read something in the paper or have an outpatient appointment. Perhaps it is the anniversary of the day of your diagnosis or you hear that someone else you know has cancer. You may find it easier to reassure yourself if you know in advance what may raise your anxiety levels. You can then prepare for low moments.
Relaxation
Some people find that learning relaxation exercises is a very effective and enjoyable way of dealing with stress and anxiety. Including relaxation exercises into your day may help you to release tension and reduce muscle aches and pains. They can give you time to focus on your own needs for a while. Other benefits include improving the quality of sleep and the reduction of the side effects of stress, such as pain and fatigue. Relaxation can also restore a sense of well-being and may help you to feel more in control of your life. Local cancer support centres may also offer relaxation groups as part of their programme.
Counselling
Counselling takes place when a counsellor meets a client in a private and confidential setting to explore a difficulty the client is experiencing. It may be coping with major life changes, dissatisfaction with life or loss of a sense of direction and purpose.
Counselling may be available through the NHS, sometimes in GP surgeries or through the hospital where you have been treated. Some voluntary organisations also offer counselling free of charge or at a cost related to income. Many counsellors work in private practice offering individual or group sessions.
A diagnosis of cancer, treatment and the physical effects of this inevitably have an emotional effect. For many people coping with the fear of the cancer coming back and uncertainty about the future is the hardest part of finishing treatment. During treatment you may feel that something is being ‘done’ against the cancer. It is also often a very busy period. All your concentration and energy on a day-to-day basis is focused on coping with various appointments, treatments and side effects.
When treatment ends it is natural to have feelings of insecurity and anxiety. You will have more time to think about the possibility of recurrence and it may feel as though there is nothing now ‘fighting’ your disease. Many people worry that every ache or pain they experience is a sign that the cancer has returned or is progressing. They sometimes hold back from contacting their doctors or nurses due to fear of bothering them. If a symptom does persist and you are concerned, talk to your medical or nursing team. They are very used to dealing with such queries and supporting patients.
People can often experience isolation when treatment ends. This may be because you have less contact with nurses, doctors and fellow patients. You may also find that family and friends don’t realise that you are struggling with fears and anxieties. Partners, relatives and friends may stop talking about the cancer and treat it as past history.
One way to explore this is to spend some time identifying who can provide what (practical, emotional, financial, social and spiritual support) within your network of friends and family. Some people prefer to attend a support group to meet others with similar experiences and to hear how they have coped.
Don’t expect to feel positive 100 per cent of the time. Certain events may set off your worries and anxiety all over again. You may read something in the paper or have an outpatient appointment. Perhaps it is the anniversary of the day of your diagnosis or you hear that someone else you know has cancer. You may find it easier to reassure yourself if you know in advance what may raise your anxiety levels. You can then prepare for low moments.
Relaxation
Some people find that learning relaxation exercises is a very effective and enjoyable way of dealing with stress and anxiety. Including relaxation exercises into your day may help you to release tension and reduce muscle aches and pains. They can give you time to focus on your own needs for a while. Other benefits include improving the quality of sleep and the reduction of the side effects of stress, such as pain and fatigue. Relaxation can also restore a sense of well-being and may help you to feel more in control of your life. Local cancer support centres may also offer relaxation groups as part of their programme.
Counselling
Counselling takes place when a counsellor meets a client in a private and confidential setting to explore a difficulty the client is experiencing. It may be coping with major life changes, dissatisfaction with life or loss of a sense of direction and purpose.
Counselling may be available through the NHS, sometimes in GP surgeries or through the hospital where you have been treated. Some voluntary organisations also offer counselling free of charge or at a cost related to income. Many counsellors work in private practice offering individual or group sessions.
LC charity Ball