Coping With Your Colon Cancer Diagnosis
Receiving a diagnosis of colon cancer can, quite simply, be a challenging and overwhelming experience. But, how do you stay calm after a cancer diagnosis? What is the next step after being diagnosed with colon cancer?
Today, we will provide you with practical tips and advice on how to navigate the mental, physical, financial, and social aspects of fighting colon cancer.
5 Tips to Help You Cope With a Colon Cancer Diagnosis
#1: Start With Your Mental Health
If you take one thing away from this blog that helps you, let it be this:
Give yourself some space and grace to process your emotions. It's 100% normal to experience a range of emotions upon receiving a cancer diagnosis. This reaction is valid and it’s okay to feel your emotions very deeply and not be ready to fight just yet!
During this time, emotional support is critical. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups who can provide a listening ear. Depending on your patience for outside help at this time, you may even consider counseling or therapy to provide you with coping strategies.
#2: Next, Consider Your Physical Health
Make sure you understand your diagnosis. Ask questions like “what is colon cancer,” “how do I prepare for surgery,” and “how do I beat this thing?” Ask any question that comes to mind if it helps you get a better understanding of what you’re going through.
However, physical health also goes beyond following and understanding your treatment plan; you’ll also want to try to embrace a healthy lifestyle as well as you can. If you have enough energy, incorporate regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient rest into your routine to help you manage side effects.
#3: Reach Out for Support and Social Connections
Communicating with loved ones is imperative; they can’t help you adequately if they don’t know what you’re going through. However, you can also join support groups if you feel like the people in your life don’t understand what you’re going through. Connecting with individuals who have gone through similar experiences can be invaluable.
Above all, it’s recommended that you maintain social activities as long as you’re feeling well enough. Continue participating in activities you enjoy, as they can offer a sense of normalcy and uplift your spirits.
#4: Understand the Financial Impacts
Once you have figured some of these other things out, review your insurance coverage to help you make informed decisions regarding medical expenses. You may also want to consult with your employer to get information about sick pay, grants, or any additional resources that may be available to you.
Finally, look into financial assistance from organizations or foundations that provide aid specifically for cancer patients. These resources can help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with treatment.
#5: Consider Your Childcare Needs
If you have younger children, talk to your support network. Reach out to family, friends, or local community resources to discuss childcare options during treatment or medical appointments.
Daycare or after-school programs may also be an option for when you have appointments. There may even be local programs that cater to families affected by cancer.
Remember: You Aren’t Alone
Receiving a colon cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it's essential to remember that you have options and support available. By focusing on your mental, physical, and social well-being, you can navigate this journey with greater resilience and become a Colorectal Cancer Survivor!