Strategies for Managing Anxiety and Depression with a Cancer Diagnosis

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Receiving a cancer diagnosis is an undoubtedly anxiety-inducing event in anyone’s life. Although treatments and prospects have improved significantly, it is still hugely disruptive to hear that you have cancer. It is normal to experience a sudden shift in your emotions as you come to terms with your illness and the treatment plan ahead. Still, there are ways for you to manage your anxiety and depression to maintain hope and positivity. Here are some useful strategies to preserve your resilience in the face of a cancer diagnosis.

Build a Trusted Group to Lean On

The people around you will be your main source of support. If you don’t already have loved ones that you can trust and rely upon, reach out to support groups for people in your position. Having others to talk to is an extremely important aspect of managing your emotions while facing this diagnosis. Sharing your experiences and listening to others will help clear your mind and give you a different perspective.

Understand Your Cancer Experience

Not everyone feels that they can handle learning more about their specific illness, as it may drive them deeper into ruminating, anxious thoughts. However, it can be informative and reassuring to understand your diagnosis better. For example, if you are facing lymphoma cancer then it is worthwhile learning the details of your diagnosis and treatment plan. If you have questions, take note of them before visiting with your medical team. They can offer you more detailed information specific to your situation and illness.

Try a Relaxing Physical Pursuit

Any physical activity will help to distract from negative feelings, but relaxing exercises such as yoga, swimming, or hiking are particularly good for managing stress.

Talk to Your Medical Team About Your Feelings

Apart from providing medical information about your diagnosis and treatment, your medical team is also a source of other support. Don’t hide your anxiety or depression. By letting your medical team know that you are experiencing these troubling emotions, they can point you in the direction of specialist help such as therapy or counseling. While they might not be able to offer any detailed assistance themselves, they have other patients in similar situations who also need advice on where to find support.

Find a Routine That Prioritises Your Mental Health

You may discover that your cancer diagnosis has seriously upended your normal routine. If this is the case, it can be worthwhile focusing on creating a new routine that accounts for your diagnosis rather than ignoring it. Accept that your mental wellbeing now requires extra support and make lifestyle changes to accommodate for this. For example, allocate time for a walk in nature or find a pastime that distracts your mind from worries, even if only temporarily.

It is normal to experience a sudden change in your emotional state after receiving a cancer diagnosis. Learning that your life has altered course will always elicit a significant response. To counteract the negative impact that prolonged anxiety and depression can have on your mental and physical wellbeing, use the above strategies to cope.

Author Bio:

Dan L is a dedicated follower of the latest self-care strategies and research, following trends across the sector diligently. With over a decade of experience in freelance writing for the health niche, he is also passionate about alternative medicine and the change it has on people’s lives.