Coping With a Cancer Diagnosis

 Coping With a Cancer Diagnosis 

After Cancer Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with cancer triggers a variety of emotions. Many people accept the diagnosis of cancer as a challenge—something they are going to fight. Some common emotions others may experience are anger, anxiety, fear and depression. Also, many people with cancer feel as if their reactions are not normal. The following may help explain and alleviate these concerns.

Anger
Anger is a common reaction to being diagnosed with cancer. Typically, people who are angry will take their anger out on those closest to them, usually family and friends. People who are extremely angry and cannot resolve their anger eventually may isolate themselves from others. Those who are experiencing anger need to be able to find a safe outlet to vent their anger such as writing, exercise, sports, talking, etc.

Anxiety and Fear
Many people who have been diagnosed with cancer may experience anxiety about their diagnosis and the unknown. After being diagnosed with cancer, treatment options and formulating a plan may not lessen the anxiety and fear. Once a treatment plan is known, anxiety may still exist because the patient may not know what is involved in his treatment such as side effects, financial obligations and/or transportation.

While anxiety may be common, there are signs to be aware of that may indicate a problem. Anxiety may be a problem if it is persistent, does not lessen or go away, or interferes with your daily routine. Talk to your physician about your anxiety. To help with anxiety, there may be times that a physician prescribes medications that may be tapered off as the anxiety lessens. Other options to help lessen anxiety are journaling, relaxation techniques, walking, exercise or talking with someone about what is making you anxious.

Depression
Depression is another common reaction to being diagnosed with cancer. Just like anxiety, depression tends to go away once a treatment routine is established. However, some signs and symptoms of serious depression include change in sleep or appetite not related to your treatment and increasing depression that interferes with daily activities. Seek immediate help if you have suicidal thoughts.

Treatment for depression can include medication and counseling. Medications may be tapered off once the depression begins to lessen. Counseling can come from many sources, including Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), social workers, psychiatrists, psychologists and support groups (The Wellness Community, American Cancer Society).

If you need further assistance or have any questions about emotional reactions to a cancer diagnosis, please feel free to contact your oncology social worker. 
 
The Cancer Institute welcomes any questions or topics of interest. I can be reached by email at tagreen@utmck.edu or 865.305.6154.

 

Sincerely,
Teri Green
Social Worker
Cancer Institute
865.305.6154