Anxiety, depression, anticipatory grief—these are just some of the challenges you’ll face if your loved one is stricken with cancer. The least you can do is to cope with the difficulties of dealing with cancer.
After getting a diagnosis and treatment, coping with cancer is the next step.
1. ALONE OR WITH FAMILY/FRIENDS? YOUR CHOICE. We all have our own ways of dealing with certain problems. For some, it’s sticking with family or friends, while others prefer to do it alone. However, the choice is up to you.
2. DON’T BE AFRAID TO OPEN UP. If you or your loved one is positive for cancer, it’s never too late to open up, even if you prefer to be left alone. At some point, you need to express your feelings. Not to mention, social support can help too.
3. ENCOURAGE, BUT DON’T FORCE. On the other hand, if your close friend or relative has cancer, it’s vital to encourage each other to open up their feelings. But don’t force it. Instead, encourage one another until both of you are ready to talk.
4. INVALIDATING ANYONE ELSE’S FEELINGS. Some people may act strange in times of depression or anxiety, but that doesn’t give you the right to scrutinise their well-being. Instead, be open to all sorts of emotions, and be there for everyone who needs your support.
5. CONSIDER COUNSELLING. If being with your family isn’t enough, consider going into counseling sessions that will help you manage your worries and concerns. Doing so should help you figure out what bothers you the most so you can feel a little lighter at the end of the session.
These are some of the ways you can cope with cancer. If you suspect that you or your loved one is positive for cancer, visit a cancer treatment centre in Singapore soon.
Interested in a checkup? You could visit International Cancer Specialist, a cancer management centre in Singapore.
