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Hearing the word “cancer” can feel surreal. Suddenly, your world is full of unknowns, complex terminology, endless appointments, and never-ending decisions. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, scared, and even numb. While very cancer journey is different, you don’t have to face your diagnosis alone. The steps listed below can help you feel more in control during this uncertain time.
1. Take Time to Process
Receiving a cancer diagnosis can ignite a whirlwind of emotions, including fear, confusion, anger, and even denial. It’s okay to feel all of these, and it’s ok to not feel quite ready to tackle it all at once. Take a deep breath and allow yourself the time to process your diagnosis.
Talking with someone you trust, like a close friend, family member or counselor, can help you start to work through these emotions. Journaling or simple sitting with your thoughts in a quiet space can also bring about understanding and clarity.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to feel when you’ve been diagnosed with cancer. It’s important to give yourself grace.
2. Research Your Diagnosis
The first step in feeling more empowered, and being your own biggest advocate, is understanding your diagnosis. What type of cancer do you have? How advanced is it? What are the treatment options?
Ask your doctor any and every question. Write them down before appointments. Ask for clarification if something isn’t clear. Many patients will find it helpful to bring a family member or friend to appointments, who can take notes or offer a second set of eyes and ears.
While knowledge can be empowering, be mindful of how much you consume at once. Stick to credible sources like your medical team or trusted organizations, like the American Cancer Society.
3. Recruit a Support System
You don’t have to experience this along. Reach out to those you trust – family and friends – to share your diagnosis. While it may be an uncomfortable conversation at first, providing your loved ones with insight can relieve some of the emotional burden you’re experiencing.
If you’re not quite ready to talk to people, consider joining a support group for cancer patients. Hearing from and resonating with others who have walked a similar path can provide empowerment and comfort as you begin to navigate your journey.
4. Be an Active Participant in Your Care
While you certainly didn’t choose this journey, you have a say in how it unfolds. Stay close with your healthcare team to understand your treatment options and create a plan that best fits your wants and needs.
Consider seeking a second opinion if you’re unsure about the proposed course of action. Second opinions are a standard and encouraged step in making informed medical decisions.
5. Prepare for Treatment
Treatment plans will vary greatly depending on your specific diagnosis. Whether you’re facing surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy, your care team will guide you through each step.
It’s helpful to ask questions such as:
- What side effects can I expect to experience?
- How can I prepare myself physically and emotionally?
- Are there lifestyle changes I should be making?
Your doctor may also recommend connecting with a dietician or counselor to support your overall well-being throughout treatment.
6. Prioritize Self-Care
In the weeks and months ahead, your body and mind will need a little extra TLC. Self-care is more than bubble baths and spa days – it’s finding ways to nourish yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Make sleep a top priority and do your best to consume a well-balanced diet. These efforts combined will support your energy levels and immune system function.
Consider participating in mindfulness exercises, like journaling, meditation or talking to a therapist that specializes in cancer care.
Gentle exercise like yoga, walking, or stretching can improve your mood and help you feel more in tune with your body.
Appreciate the small moments of joy, like watching your favorite movie, spending time with a beloved pet, or simply stepping outside and experiencing a burst of fresh air.
7. Communicate Your Needs
It’s important to know that your loved ones will want to help, but that they might not always know the best way how. If your support system is helping, let them know what would be most helpful to you. This could be anything from running errands to attending appointments with you or just lending a listening ear on a tough day.
If you’re unsure of what you need, that’s okay, too. Let people know you’re still processing and appreciate their patients whilst you do.
8. Know You're Not Alone
There are a multitude of people ready to walk this journey with you. From doctors and counselors, to family, friends, survivors, and support groups, lean on them as needed and never shy away from asking for help. If you’re ever lost, afraid, overwhelmed, or anxious, know that those feelings are normal. You’re navigating something tough.
Receiving a cancer diagnosis can change your life but know that it doesn’t define your life by any means. Take one step at a time. Every step forward is progress, no matter how small. You are more resilient than you realize, and you don’t have to go through this journey alone.