Dealing with the emotions of cancer

Cancer diagnosis can be an emotionally overwhelming time. You may be overloaded with information, feel afraid, and feel frustrated because your life has been interrupted. Your emotions will probably settle once your treatment plan is in place and you have a “path” to follow.¹

Everybody copes differently during this time, and there is no one single set of coping techniques that is right for everybody. Some of the following tips may help you through this difficult period:

Keep a journal about how you are feeling¹
Make a list of things that are important to you, and try to do a couple of these every day¹
Take walks outside¹
Establish a regular sleep routine¹
Think helpful thoughts, or use “mantras”¹
Use relaxation breathing techniques¹
Practice mindfulness¹
Spend more time with certain people, and avoid others if their presence causes stress¹
Men and women cope with cancer differently; here are some practical tips for men and some for women²

Your doctor may help you to set up a plan for coping; this can help you to feel more in control and hopeful for the future.¹

Glossary

References