Top Nine Methods for Assisting an Individual Facing Cancer Therapy
In the face of a cancer diagnosis, both patients and their loved ones experience a profound shift. Clinical psychologist Melissa Walt, PsyD, sheds light on the key approaches to emotionally support those going through this challenging journey.
First and foremost, maintaining a positive yet realistic attitude is crucial. Regularly reassure your loved one that you love and support them, and foster an environment of hope and resilience.
Listening actively and empathetically without judgment is also vital. Allow your loved one to express all emotions, including fear, anger, or sadness, without trying to fix or minimize their feelings. This empathetic approach can help them feel heard and understood.
Encouraging open communication is another essential aspect of emotional support. Have honest conversations about their needs and emotions, and consider involving a therapist or counselor to facilitate difficult discussions within the family.
Empowering the patient by helping them stay involved in their medical decisions can also be beneficial. This fosters a sense of control and empowerment during a time when they may feel helpless.
Avoid allowing the patient to focus excessively on cancer. Gently redirect conversations to other positive or neutral topics when appropriate to help alleviate anxiety and stress.
Supporting social interactions and engagement in activities that promote mind-body wellbeing is equally important. This could include gentle exercise, hobbies, or shared meals with others.
Encouraging participation in support groups where they can share experiences and coping strategies with others facing similar challenges is also recommended. These groups offer a peaceful, safe space for cancer patients, families, and friends to connect and find comfort.
Taking care of your own mental health is equally important to avoid burnout and sustain your ability to provide emotional support effectively.
Practical tips include attending medical appointments together to understand treatment and side effects better, and offering help with daily tasks without waiting to be asked.
Additional tips from Dr. Walt include making a care package for someone with cancer, providing activities and self-care opportunities. Embracing a deeper spiritual connection can bring comfort to those going through the cancer journey, but it's important to be sensitive to others' beliefs or lack thereof when discussing spirituality.
Dr. Walt also advises seeking help to vent and get a reality check on feelings, and recommends embracing sadness and talking about feelings when supporting someone with cancer. Practicing mindfulness and meditation can have a positive impact on the immune system, anxiety, and sleep, and deep breathing can help reduce stress and tension in both the patient and their loved ones.
However, it's important to be aware that it's normal for loved ones to feel anger about a cancer diagnosis. It's important not to take it out on others, and to practice deep breathing to manage these intense emotions.
By following these key approaches, we can provide emotional support that aligns with clinical psychological principles for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, helping them address the complex feelings they face and promoting resilience during their journey.
Engaging in discussions about health and wellness, focusing on maintaining a healthy lifestyle during and after treatment, can be a helpful way to alleviate stress and promote healing.
Educating oneself about medical-conditions, such as different science-backed treatment options, side effects, and holistic approaches like meditation and mindfulness, can empower patients and their loved ones to make informed decisions and navigate their journey with confidence.
