Tips For Families Dealing With A Breast
Cancer Diagnosis
The individual with breast cancer is not
the only one affected. Family and friends may also feel the affect of this
diagnosis. However, I am here to help! Here are some tips for coping with a
breast cancer diagnosis:
1. Be supportive!
You may notice changes in your loved ones mood. Try to be sensitive to this.
The medications or treatments may be causing these mood changes.
2. Encourage the independence of your loved one! Of course, we want
you to be there for them whenever they need you in this tough time. However,
being active and independent will help her to regain some self-reliance and
keep her attitude positive.
3. Make sure you take
care of your needs (rest!) so
that you can meet the needs of your loved one to the best of your ability.
4. Accept help from other family members and
friends!
You may also find that your stress levels
are greatly increased during this time. It is so important that you do your
best to keep these stress hormones at a reasonable level in order to ensure
that you have a healthy mindset when assisting your family member. To keep
stress levels down:
1. Exercise!
Exercise releases endorphins. Endorphins have morphine-like effects and they
make you happy!
2. Eat lots of
whole foods—fruits, vegetables, whole grains!
3. Stay positive!
4. Meditate.
Take a few moments out of each day to take deep breaths and center your
thoughts.
5. Make sure you are getting enough sleep.
Here is an article that may help you to
better understand how to explain cancer and cancer treatment to children: http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/cid/documents/webcontent/002605-pdf.pdf
References:
1.
Coping With Cancer in Everyday Life. (n.d.). Retrieved October 7, 2014,
from
http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/cid/documents/webcontent/002801-pdf.pdf
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