What psychological effects does a cancer diagnosis have?
May 15, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Marie Hahn
Dear Doctor,
My name is Guido Schottmann and recently I was diagnosed with cancer. This news has completely turned my life upside down and I am currently very concerned about the psychological effects that this illness could have on me. I feel overwhelmed, anxious, and unsure about my future.
The cancer diagnosis has triggered a variety of emotions in me that I have never experienced before. I feel sad, angry, and sometimes even hopeless. I worry about my family, my future, and how I will cope with the challenges of treatment. I feel like I have lost control over my life and that everything is just rolling over me.
I would like to learn more about the psychological effects of a cancer diagnosis and how best to handle my emotions. Are there ways for me to better manage my fear and uncertainty? What support is available to help me maintain my mental health during treatment?
I am aware that the psychological aspects of my illness are just as important as the physical ones, and I want to ensure that I receive the best possible care. I would be very grateful if you could provide me with more information on this and possibly give me some advice on how to protect my mental health during this difficult time.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Guido Schottmann
Dear Mr. Schottmann,
First of all, I want to say that it is completely understandable that the diagnosis of cancer has triggered a variety of emotions in you. It is an extremely challenging situation that many people are faced with, and it is completely normal to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain. It is important to be aware that these feelings are part of the process and that there are ways to cope with them.
The diagnosis of cancer can indeed have significant psychological effects. Many patients report strong emotions such as fear, sadness, anger, and hopelessness. It is important to understand that these reactions are normal and it is important to acknowledge and accept them. It is also important to know that there is help available to cope with these emotions.
There are various ways in which you can better manage your anxiety and uncertainty. One option is to speak with a psycho-oncologist. Psycho-oncologists are specially trained to support cancer patients in coping with their emotions and fears. They can help you organize your thoughts and feelings, develop strategies for managing stress, and help you find a positive way to deal with your illness.
Furthermore, there are also support groups for cancer patients where you can connect with other affected individuals to exchange experiences and find support. It can be very helpful to talk to people who have had similar experiences and who understand what you are going through.
It is also important to take care of yourself and look after your mental health. This means taking time for yourself, practicing self-care, and paying attention to your needs. Try to develop healthy coping strategies, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and relaxation techniques.
Overall, it is important to be aware that it is normal to experience a variety of emotions in a situation like a cancer diagnosis. It is important to seek help, whether from professional therapists, support groups, or other support systems. By actively working on your mental health and taking care of yourself, you can better cope with the challenges that come with treatment.
I hope that this information is helpful for you and that you find the support you need during this difficult time.
Best regards,
Marie Hahn
