Sunday, June 30, 2013

How to deal with Cancer ?

''You have Cancer'' if this is what your Doctor told you recently, then you're in the right place.
Or has someone you love been diagnosed with cancer? Still read on.
These are the quick 10 steps that can be followed, to make sure you're on the right track.

Dealing With Cancer

The 10 step guide to dealing with the diagnosis of Cancer :

1. HOW YOU FEEL IS NORMAL
It's perfectly natural if after hearing the diagnosis you're in denial about the situation. Give yourself some time to wrap your head around it all. It's normal to experience anger, disbelief, and feeling sad, frustrated, and like you're losing control.
But at the end of the day, you have to make sure you realize that you can deal with this.

2. FACTS
Get the facts straight. Ask your Doctor about an honest opinion in your case. Read, browse, and use all the possible sources of information available to you, and keep a record of all that you learn. Read about all the possible treatments, all available options, and their outcomes. But keep in mind that every person is different. So, do not assume what your fate is going to be like. Get 2nd opinions. Get 3rd opinions. Learn all about your condition.
This will not only give you all the knowledge you need, but also restore your sense of control over your life.



3. FAMILY
Tell your family. The support matters. Accept all the help you get, gracefully. Remember, not everyone is trying to help you out of pity.

4. GUILT
Do not feel guilty or frustrated if you cannot gather all the courage to beat Cancer just yet. Every person has their own way of dealing with things. And you will develop your own strategy to deal with this eventually.

5. REST
Rest. Clear your head. Take a break.

6. MAKE A PLAN
Now,  re-prioritize things, when you're thinking clearly. Formulate a plan for insurance, manage your finances with some professional help.

7. STICK TO YOUR ROUTINE
Do not stray away from your routine too much. Avoid sudden changes in your lifestyle. Although, you may have to cut down on the work that physically and mentally exerts you.

8. EXPLORE SPIRITUALITY
Explore spirituality. If you have never been spiritual your entire life, this may be a good time. And if you have been spiritual, and find this opportunity to blame God, and asking "Why me ?" try and avoid that. Even if it's the easier way. Because at the end of the day, it's good to know that there is someone up there who can still take control and make things better.

9. EAT HEALTHY
Eat healthy. It's very very important that your body gets more than what it usually needs to cope with all the changes, and treatments. Eat lots, even if you don't feel hungry. It's something you have to do. Stay hydrated. Allow your body to rest, and make sure only the good food gets in.
Stay away from smoking and alcohol. Your body cannot handle that right now.

10. EXERCISE
Exercise. Yes, but be careful not to over exert. Mild to moderate aerobic type exercises have been proven very useful. And do not try them on your own. Go see a qualified Physical Therapist and set an exercise routine.

Besides, joining a support group, distracting yourself with indulging in some activity you like, or even music-therapy has been proved to be beneficial to many people.
Again, every person is different. Try things that work the best for you. And know that your family, friends and loved ones will look out for you no matter what.
Trust your doctor. Trust your family. Trust God.

Also read
Coping with Cancer | Active Treatment
What is Psycho-Oncology?
War against Cancer
5 reasons why you should study oncology.
Cancer in 21st century.
Brachytherapy for prostate cancer.
Cancer and surgery.
What is Cancer-related Fatigue?



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