Breath governs our well-being. Breathing is so key to our existence and general well-being that in Sanskrit it is called Praan (life). That’s why when your breathing becomes a battle, you feel anxious, choked and scared.
Sarah has been writing professionally since 2016, but her connection to the medical profession is older. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and has worked as a registered nurse in multiple specialties, including pharmaceuticals, OR/surgery, endocrinology, and family medicine.
“It is very common to experience anxiety or depression immediately after a cancer diagnosis and during the course of treatment. In fact, one in four people with cancer also face symptoms of depression during their cancer journey,” writes Sarah Handzel.
Why you should actively focus on Mental Wellness:
“Putting on a face and acting like everything is normal can actually make mental health problems worse. Eventually, these problems can even affect your ability to continue with your cancer treatments. If you’re having difficulty managing your mental health while dealing with cancer, talk to your doctor about possible treatment options,” advises Sarah Handzel.
Do not think that feeling sad or afflicted is embarrassing:
A little angst is normal, says Handzel. The patient goes through several layers of emotions. On the one hand, there is the shock of the diagnosis. Fear, uncertainty about the future, and anxiety about treatment and recovery are a completely normal type of psychological distress. Just be careful that they don’t reach a level where the distress interferes with your ability to perform daily activities.
Lung cancer and depression can go hand in hand as one struggles to come to terms with the confusion of what lies ahead, the sudden change in dreams held close to one’s heart for years, etc.
Why it is important to keep the patient’s spirits up:
The good news, Andersen said, is that most patients showed a decrease in depression symptoms after diagnosis, as they were tested every one to two months. But those who didn’t, and who had the most severe depressive symptoms, were likely to die sooner.
When to see the doctor:
If you feel any of the symptoms below, you should talk to your caregiver’s health team or your doctor about it.
- Uncontrolled train of worrying thoughts
- Inability to concentrate or solve problems.
- Unexplained anger or irritability
- Prolonged feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Changes in sleep patterns or your weight
- Extreme fatigue (tiredness) or loss of energy
- Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide plans or attempts
Tips for coping with a lung cancer diagnosis:
Sarah Handzel lists the following steps as ways to manage the mental well-being of a lung cancer patient.
- Body Temple – Keep It Healthy: Eating a well-balanced diet and exercising regularly can help boost your energy levels and emotions. Eating foods packed with nutrition can prepare your body for a better fight against lung cancer. Take awesome walks every day. These little excursions can get you out in the sun and help clear your mind.
- It’s okay to cry It is natural to feel that life betrayed you, why, etc. Your best plans must now face changes. Live the change. Even welcome you. Take the time to grieve, but remember that you still have a life ahead of you.
- Don’t suppress your emotions A lots of cancer survivors I swear by the therapeutic value of journaling, or being able to explain your fears or concerns. Not letting your emotions flow can worsen any anxiety or depression you feel. Talk to your family, friends, and your treatment team. You can keep an electronic journal of audio and video entries. All this can allow you to understand your experience and thoughts.
- Follow your treatment plan: Fear of what lies ahead, a feeling of depression – all of these can derail your treatment, as you may fall behind in prescribed treatment. Remember, that is sacrosanct. Don’t skip a doctor’s appointment. Do not skip medications or sessions. That’s key to your recovery, a faster recovery.
- Maintain relationships: Maintaining an active social life with family and friends can help you stay positive and focused on the future. Your relationships help you build memories while you enjoy living your life.
- Tell your doctor: The doctor can then help you manage your mental situation through therapy, medication, etc., if necessary. If you’ve tried to handle your situation on your own and still feel anxious or depressed, your doctor can help you find relief or refer you to a mental health therapist.
- Join a support group: When fellow sufferers recount their struggles, victories and worries, one feels very relieved. Consider joining a support group – there’s no shame in asking for help! There are also support groups for different types of cancer. Find the one that makes you feel comfortable.
Disclaimer: The hints and tips mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or dietitian before starting any fitness program or making changes to your diet.
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