If you or a loved one have recently been diagnosed with cancer, it can be difficult news to learn and process. At Sunnybrook’s April Speaker Series, Better Living: Resources and Support During the Cancer Journey, several experts offered information on nutrition tips, paying for prescriptions, the role of social work and helpful coping strategies for patients and caregivers.
If you are living with a cancer diagnosis, it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions. Clinical psychologist Dr. Pavla Reznicek offers 10 steps to help cope with these emotions and overall feelings of anxiety.
- Try to stay in the here and now, and only plan for what is immediately ahead
- Try diaphragmatic breathing, meditation or other relaxation exercises
- Avoid making impulsive or big decisions
- Continue to engage in activities and routines that are meaningful, pleasurable and offer structure
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Reach out to family, friends and support groups
- Put your feelings into words by writing or talking about them
- Take stock without judgment
- Connect with nature
- Stay active
Get more tips for dealing with stress: visit Sunnybrook’s Manage Cancer Fatigue website
