Stress Emotions from Mesothelioma
Dealing with a mesothelioma diagnosis and the trials that follow can take a toll on your mental well-being. No one wants to have cancer and no one is prepared to deal with the disease. We are programmed to hope for the best and when we are instead presented with the worst, it wreaks havoc with our lives.
You'll feel many different kinds of emotions after you find out that you have mesothelioma. They might include:
- Shock - No one wants to believe that this is happening to them. Many newly-diagnosed cancer patients describe themselves as being "in a fog", unable to swallow the diagnosis. Some will ask the doctor or family member to repeat the diagnosis again and again, trying to grasp the reality of the situation and overcome their disbelief.
- Anger - This emotion can be directed towards one's self ("Why did I allow myself to work with this dangerous mineral?") or towards others ("I can't believe I wasn't protected from inhaling asbestos at my job!"). It's okay to be angry but be sure not to direct it at those who are trying to help you.
- Fear - Not knowing that the future holds is very scary. Gather as much information as you can about your disease. While it won't take away all the scary thoughts, knowledge and knowing what you face often helps quell some of your fears.
- Denial - Many individuals don't want to believe they have mesothelioma and might insist to their doctor that they've made a mistake. This is natural, but if it continues for longer than a few days to a week, a loved one should seek help for the patient.
It's not easy to deal with a diagnosis of a terminal disease. Though you believe you've always been a strong person, you may need assistance to help with stress or other emotional issues. If so, don't hesitate to see a professional who can help you sort out your feelings. Ask your doctor to refer you to a psychologist or speak to a trusted clergyperson.
When you're all talked out but still feeling stressed, consider some alternative treatments to help relieve your tension.
- Massage - Various kinds of massage are known to create a feeling of peacefulness and tranquility, even if only for a short time. Find a licensed massage therapist or a physical therapist who has worked with cancer patients, if possible. Massage can also help with pain management.
- Meditation - Learning to meditate will allow you to escape the real world for short periods of time and is also known to help relieve pain. This is an inexpensive form of stress relief as once you know the particulars of meditation, you can call upon them at any time and in any place.
- Hypnosis - Those who are open to this form of therapy often report great reductions in stress when entering a relaxed, trance-like state.
- Acupuncture - Used largely for pain relief, this ancient Chinese form of medicine is also known to relieve stress and anxiety and lessen depression.