Could Someone Give Me Advice on Balancing Cancer Treatment and Emotional Mental health?

[Xandra]

Hello everyone😊

I hope everyone is doing well today. I've been reading through the forums and was motivated to seek out for help and advice as I navigate my cancer journey. While the medical aspect has been hard; I am finding the emotional and mental toll just as difficult; if not more so.

I knew from the start of my diagnosis that the physical side effects of treatment would be difficult fatigue; nausea; changes in appetite; and other symptoms. But I did not understand how emotionally charged this event would be. Some days; I feel powerful and ready to battle, but others; I feel fully overwhelmed; frightened & dejected. I am sure many of you have had or are experiencing similar

experiences; and I would love to hear your views and ideas on how you deal with the emotional side of cancer.

• How do you handle these emotional ups and downs? Do you have any special tactics or hobbies that help you stay positive or at least get through difficult times? I have attempted mindfulness techniques; but my thoughts seem to stray. I've also considered joining a support group; but I am not sure what to anticipate or whether it will make me feel more connected.
• In addition; I would like to learn how others deal with well intended but occasionally overwhelming assistance from loved ones. My friends and family have been kind; yet their concern and continuous check ins often add to my stress. I do not want to appear ungrateful; but it is difficult to reconcile their care with my desire for personal space and time to process everything on my own.
• Has anyone else experienced this; and how can you create limits while maintaining a solid support network?
• If anyone has any advice for dealing with worry or concern regarding the future; I would be thankful. I have discovered that being apprehensive about what lies ahead makes it tough to stay in the moment and appreciate tiny accomplishments.

Also I explored some topics related to this https://onlinecommunity.cancercouncil.com.au/t5/News-Events/Beyond-Brain-Cancer-ccsptrainingImproving-Support-for-Young-People-After/m-p/40874 but I did not get the sufficient solution of my query so I would really want to get some help from a more experienced person

Thank you in advance for any advice or personal experiences you are willing to provide. I'm glad for this community and eager to hear your thoughts.

[Susana_CCNSW]

Hi Xandra,

Thank you for joining our online community and for reaching out.

Cancer takes people on an emotional rollercoaster, as you mentioned with lots of ups and downs.

You feel overwhelmed and more and more questions pop up in your head every time.

Handling emotions is never easy, and it would be a good idea to talk to a professional if possible.

If you live in Australia I would suggest calling our support and information line on 131120 between 9 -5pm to find out if there is suitable emotional support available for you.

I am also sharing with you a booklet explaining emotions and cancer I hope you find it useful.

https://www.cancer.org.au/assets/pdf/emotions-and-cancer-booklet

https://www.cancervic.org.au/get-support/living-with-cancer/emotions/emotions-overview.html

Kind regards

Susana

Cancer Council 

Online Community

[aumaum80]

Hello, I understand how you feel. I am currently undergoing treatment for advanced cancer and have just completed 15 sessions of radiation. The pain is quite torturous for both the body and spirit. However, the method I use for myself is to try not to focus on the pain and to meditate. You can find guided meditation clips by Dr. Joe Dispenza on YouTube. When you wake up, try not to watch the news or check social media right away; don't fill your mind with negative information, just meditate first. I usually do this twice a day—once in the morning and once before going to bed. During the night, I play Alpha wave music, which has a variety of options available. I keep it low by my ear, and when I wake up, I feel very refreshed. This helps me to focus and stay mindful, making it easier to get through each day. Give it a try.