How to Cope with the Impact of Cancer on Your Mental Health

There are those rare, pivotal moments in life that never leave you, even after other memories from the same period have faded. One of these moments is if you are diagnosed with Cancer

Your world may crumble.   You may not really hear any of it. The word “cancer” was the only thing your brain will digest

The impact of cancer on your mental can be a very negative one at first. Even if your doctor and treatment team suggest an excellent chance of survival after treatment—the word “cancer” had can have you in knots.

After your diagnosis, nothing and no one else may matter in the same way they did before. Your world may feel as if it is closing in around you, and you feel trapped and afraid. It may feel as though no one in your support circle can ease that fear because the only one who was living it is you 

You may notice that living with cancer impacts your mental health in 3 major ways.

1. Mental numbness

2. Exhaustion

3. Anxiety

A new perspective on your life

Throughout the process however, you can learn other ways to cope with the impact cancer has on your mental health, and there are ways to nurture your own mental health and wellness:

1. Have a consistent support system (family, friends, and even pets).
2. Be organized with your time and your medical information.
3. Spend time with loved ones.
4. Embrace your passion.
5. Remember to breathe and, if you can, meditate.
6. Listen to inspiring podcasts.
7. Connect with people who have been through what you have.
8. Write about your experiences in a journal or record them in a video.
9. Never take anything for granted and remember you’re alive.
10. Be honest with yourself and remember you are worth it.

Cancer doesn’t have to be the end of your happiness. The day of diagnosis might be the worst of your life but push through and don’t let anything stop you. You are here on this earth today, along with the chance to appreciate every moment.

Cancer, no matter the kind, is a devastating diagnosis. It can strip the world of its beauty and make you feel empty and hopeless. But it can also ignite a fire inside that will never be extinguished. 

Amy , Cancer Care Counsellor