If you have received a cancer diagnosis, you must remember that you remain in control of your treatment plans and your life. You can help to alleviate some of your anxiety by taking charge, informing yourself, and preparing for the next steps.
Before you begin your cancer treatment, consider the following areas and make a plan for yourself. Your doctors and the people around you are there to help you make this stressful period a little easier to navigate, so let them know what you want and need.
Table of Contents
Educate Yourself
When you are preparing to start treatment for cancer, it’s normal to feel anxious. Soothe your nerves by asking questions and doing your research.
Talk to your doctors about your cancer and the best treatment options for your specific situation. Learn about the treatment type you have selected, whether radiation, chemotherapy, surgery, or a combination. Ask about what to expect in terms of physical symptoms and changes in appearance. Learn what outcomes can be achieved through your choice of treatment.
Gather a Support Group
While you are going through your treatment, you must reach out for help and support. Get to know the doctors and nurses of the medical staff, so you are comfortable with them and feel able to ask questions and voice any concerns that you have.
Tell your family and close friends or coworkers what you are going through. They will likely want to help in any way they can. You may also want to join a support group to speak with other people who can understand what you are going through.
Make a Plan for Daily Tasks
You will probably experience days when you aren’t feeling well and are too tired to handle household chores during your treatment. Accept help from others when it is offered and always ask for assistance whenever you need it.
You can set up a schedule with friends and family members so they can step in and assist with things like laundry, meal prep, walking the dog, and other jobs that may be too much for you to handle. Let someone else drive you to your appointment or pick up the kids from school. They will most likely be eager to have direction from you on what types of things would be most helpful.
Take Care of Your Overall Well Being
Cancer treatment can sap your energy and put your body through a lot. Prepare by taking better care of yourself. Eat healthy meals and try to get in some gentle exercise. You may even want to take a few supplements to boost your energy levels and get some extra vitamins and minerals. It would be best to always speak with your doctor first to make sure what you are taking is safe and won’t interfere with your treatment.
Pay attention to your mental health and manage your stress levels. Practise self-care and surround yourself with supportive and understanding people. Allow time to do things that you enjoy and make you happy.
Go Over Your Finances
Before you start treatment, make a financial plan. You may be unable to work for a while, so talk to your employer about any medical leave you take and if you will be paid for it. Find out if part-time work or an alternative schedule would be an option.
It would be best if you also discovered precisely what treatments and prescription drugs are covered with your insurance. Make yourself a budget so you can include any extras or supplemental therapies that you wish to pursue.
If you take steps to prepare, you can ease the discomfort and uncertainty that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis. Take care of yourself, rely on your loved ones, and work closely with your doctors to stay active in your care plan.
