Receiving a cancer diagnosis is undeniably challenging, and it’s crucial to prioritize mental well-being throughout the treatment journey. In this article, we share strategies and insights to help you build mental strength and resilience during this trying time.

Acknowledge your Emotions and Ask for Help

It’s essential to acknowledge and validate the emotions you may experience during your cancer journey. From fear and anxiety to sadness and anger, it’s normal to have fluctuating emotions. Allow yourself to express your feelings openly and seek support when needed. Remember that it’s okay to ask for help and lean on your support network during difficult times.

Build Your Support Network ⁽¹⁾ 

Coping with cancer can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to family members, close friends, faith communities, or cancer support groups for support and encouragement. Surrounding yourself with caring individuals who understand your journey can provide comfort and strength during the most challenging moments. Here are some strategies to develop a reliable support system:

• Family and Friends: Openly share your thoughts and feelings with those closest to you and allow them to provide reassurance and encouragement during difficult times. 
• Faith Communities: If you’re religious or spiritual, your faith community can be a valuable source of support. 
• Cancer Support Groups: Joining a cancer support group can connect you with people who understand firsthand what you’re going through. These groups are a safe place to share experiences and exchange advice.  
• Online Communities and Resources: Explore online forums, social media groups, and reputable cancer support and education websites. These digital platforms can provide a wealth of information and offer a sense of community and belonging. 

Remember, building a support network is not a one-time task but an ongoing process. Nurture your relationships, seek new connections, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. Your support network can provide the strength and resilience you need to navigate the complexities of cancer treatment.

Seek Professional Support:

In addition to seeking support from loved ones and communities, don’t hesitate to reach out to professional resources. Your healthcare team, including oncologists, nurses, and mental health professionals, can offer invaluable support and guidance to help you navigate the emotional burden of cancer treatment. Consider therapy or counseling sessions to explore your emotions in a safe and supportive environment.

Embrace Physical Activity: 

Physical activity plays a significant role in promoting mental well-being during cancer treatment. Even incorporating light exercises like walking or yoga can profoundly benefit your mood and overall outlook. Prioritize regular physical activity as part of your self-care routine to enhance your mental resilience.

Find Meaning and Joy:

Despite the hardships of cancer treatment, finding moments of purpose and joy can provide invaluable emotional nourishment. Participate in activities and hobbies that bring you fulfillment and happiness, whether spending quality time with loved ones, exploring creative pastimes, or volunteering for a passionate cause. Cultivating a sense of meaning and joy can offer some relief from the stress of treatment and contribute to your overall well-being.

Keep a Positive Mindset and Optimism:

Maintaining a positive attitude can be a powerful coping strategy throughout your cancer journey. Surround yourself with positivity by engaging in uplifting conversations, reading inspirational books, or participating in cancer support groups. Focus on the present moment and acknowledge the small joys in life. Optimism is known to have protective effects when one is dealing with cancer. In some studies, involving cancer patients, optimism was associated with better adjustment to cancer, improved well-being, and reduced distress while being predictive of treatment challenge acceptance ⁽²⁾.  

Patient stories testify to the importance of resilience. Sometimes, finding the appropriate treatment helps in keeping optimism. This is particularly relevant for Maria. She shares her journey with breast cancer and how brachytherapy helped her maintain a positive outlook and mental resilience during her treatment. Maria emphasizes the importance of psychological well-being and how not having to undergo a full mastectomy positively impacted on her mental health. You can read more about Maria’s inspiring journey here. 

Navigating the emotional journey of cancer treatment can be difficult, and everyone’s journey is unique. Still, with the right strategies and support, you can stay strong, maintain mental resilience, and thrive despite the challenges. Prioritize building a solid support network, seek professional assistance when needed, engage in physical activity, foster a positive mindset, find moments of joy and purpose, and navigate your emotions with compassion and resilience. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey, and together, we can face the challenges of cancer with courage and resilience. 

References

⁽¹⁾ American Cancer Society’s Cancer Survivors Network: A free online community offering support, resources, and discussion forums for cancer survivors and caregivers. [https://csn.cancer.org/]

CancerCare: Provides free professional support services, including counseling, support groups, and educational resources for cancer patients. [https://www.cancercare.org/]

Cancer Support Community: Offers support groups, educational workshops, and online resources for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. [https://www.cancersupportcommunity.org/]

⁽²⁾ Miller DL, Manne SL, Taylor K, Keates J, Dougherty J. Psychological distress and well-being in advanced cancer: the effects of optimism and coping. J Clin Psychol Med Settings (1996) 3(2):115–30. 10.1007/BF01996132