CANCER AND MENTAL HEALTH: MANAGING ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, AND THE EMOTIONAL JOURNEY | |
Cancer can be a tough journey, not just physically but mentally too. It’s natural to feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed when facing a cancer diagnosis or undergoing treatment. Dr Ashish Gupta USA trained, American board-certified medical oncologist, Chief of Medical Oncology, Unique Hospital Cancer Centre, Dwarka India, sheds light on how to cope with these emotions and manage your mental health during this challenging time. Understanding the Emotional Impact of Cancer Receiving a cancer diagnosis can stir up a whirlwind of emotions. Fear, uncertainty, sadness, and anger are common reactions. It’s essential to acknowledge and accept these feelings rather than pushing them aside. Ignoring your emotions can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Coping Strategies Seek Support: You do not have to go through this journey alone. Contact friends, family, or support groups for emotional support. Speaking with others who have gone through similar experiences can be reassuring. Stay informed: Knowledge is power. Inform yourself about your diagnosis, treatment options, and what to expect. Understanding the process can help alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the unknown. Practice self-care: Take good care of yourself, both physically and emotionally. Eat healthily, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and spend time doing things you enjoy. Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga are all relaxation techniques that can help with stress reduction. Stay Positive: While it’s normal to have moments of fear and doubt, try to focus on the positives in your life. Surround yourself with uplifting people and activities that bring you happiness. Managing Anxiety and Depression Anxiety and depression are common among cancer patients, but they can be managed with the right support and resources. Talk to Your Doctor: Be open and honest with your healthcare team about how you’re feeling. They can provide resources and referrals to therapists or counsellors who specialise in cancer-related mental health. Consider Therapy: Therapy can provide a safe space to explore your emotions and develop coping strategies. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in treating anxiety and depression in cancer patients. Medication: In some cases, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms. It is critical to discuss any concerns or side effects with your physician. The Importance of Supportive Care Cancer treatment isn’t just about treating the physical disease; it’s also about supporting the whole person. Cancer hospitals like the one where Dr. Ashish Gupta practices offer a range of supportive care services to help patients cope with the emotional aspects of their diagnosis. Psychosocial Support: Cancer hospitals have dedicated teams of psychologists, social workers, and counsellors who specialise in providing emotional support to patients and their families. Support Groups: Participating in support groups allows patients to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. It provides a sense of camaraderie and validation, knowing that you’re not alone in your struggles. Complementary Therapies: Many cancer hospitals offer complementary therapies such as art therapy, music therapy, and acupuncture to help reduce stress and improve emotional well-being. In conclusion, managing the emotional impact of cancer is an essential part of the treatment journey. By seeking support, staying informed, practising self-care, and accessing the resources available at Unique Hospital Cancer Centre, patients can navigate this challenging time with resilience and strength. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and remember you’re not alone on this journey. | |
Target State: All States Target City : new Delhi Last Update : 26 April 2024 1:00 PM Number of Views: 66 | Item Owner : Unique Hospital Contact Email: Contact Phone: (None) |
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