| Tips for Coping With Cancer EAP EAP Hotline Documents |
Learning that you have cancer is a very difficult and life changing experience. If you are diagnosed with cancer you may feel
anxious, overwhelmed and afraid. You may have no idea about how to cope with the days ahead, and you may feel like a black
cloud has covered your life. While there is no best way to deal with such a diagnosis here are some suggestions for helping you
cope with the diagnosis.
• Build a support system of friends and family. Talk with them about your diagnosis and your feelings.
• Have someone accompany you to doctor appointments to help you ask questions and process the
information your doctor gives you.
• Learn as much as possible about your disease.
• Keep a journal of your feelings about your disease and its impact on your life.
• Research your treatment options and become an advocate for your own care.
• Become an expert on your insurance and benefit options so you do not let your insurance company
determine your care.
• Avoid emotionally draining life situations while you are ill.
• Keep a routine and continue doing your usual daily activities.
• Take care of yourself and your family. You all need to be your priority right now.
Few things impact us more than a diagnosis of cancer. Every member of a family and every part of your life will be affected by
the disease. Communication and patience are important in dealing with your diagnosis. You may at times feel overwhelmed and
emotional and you may struggle to have the energy to deal with normal everyday routines. It is important to find as many
supportive services as you can, and call upon them when you need help to you cope with your disease. Relieving the everyday
stresses of life and keeping yourself strong will help you to better cope with your disease.
anxious, overwhelmed and afraid. You may have no idea about how to cope with the days ahead, and you may feel like a black
cloud has covered your life. While there is no best way to deal with such a diagnosis here are some suggestions for helping you
cope with the diagnosis.
• Build a support system of friends and family. Talk with them about your diagnosis and your feelings.
• Have someone accompany you to doctor appointments to help you ask questions and process the
information your doctor gives you.
• Learn as much as possible about your disease.
• Keep a journal of your feelings about your disease and its impact on your life.
• Research your treatment options and become an advocate for your own care.
• Become an expert on your insurance and benefit options so you do not let your insurance company
determine your care.
• Avoid emotionally draining life situations while you are ill.
• Keep a routine and continue doing your usual daily activities.
• Take care of yourself and your family. You all need to be your priority right now.
Few things impact us more than a diagnosis of cancer. Every member of a family and every part of your life will be affected by
the disease. Communication and patience are important in dealing with your diagnosis. You may at times feel overwhelmed and
emotional and you may struggle to have the energy to deal with normal everyday routines. It is important to find as many
supportive services as you can, and call upon them when you need help to you cope with your disease. Relieving the everyday
stresses of life and keeping yourself strong will help you to better cope with your disease.
| For Further Information: Family Service Inc. (605)336-1974 800-589-1974 fsisd@msn.com |