Although cancer is widespread, personally receiving a cancer diagnosis is something we all dread. So, in this article, we are sharing some helpful suggestions that can help you along the way if you or a loved one is faced with this seemingly insurmountable health challenge.
1) Understand Your Cancer Diagnosis
There are different kinds of cancer. Therefore, information on how to tackle the disease may vary and, in some cases, may not apply to your specific case. While what you may have heard (online, for example) could be valid for a certain kind of cancer or person, the prognosis given may not apply to you and bring more harm than good in the long run.
When patients enroll in one of the cancer programs at our clinic, one of the first things we do is perform a full-body analysis and examination. Using the vega test and GSR scan, we endeavor to identify unbalances in your organism and the root causes. This insight allows us to establish a foundation on which we can build to help you progressively and effectively address your condition. This insight is vital because the underlying causes of the disease can vary from person to person.
Whether you choose the Budwig Center or opt for another clinic, our advice is to: seek more information. We are not referring to browsing the internet for medical advice; instead, we encourage you to speak to medical professionals with a reputable background and years of experience. Your health is precious, so strive to get the best help and guidance possible.
Please take a moment to read what our patients had to say about their experience at the Budwig Center here.
2) Speak with a doctor
Each cancer treatment is unique, and that is why you must have an open dialogue with your doctor. Don’t hold back; ask all the questions you need. You are not expected to know everything, so don’t worry about your questions coming across as “silly.” Remember, doctors study for years, they have teams of professionals helping and supporting them, and their knowledge is based on decades of research from the brightest minds in the world. A kind and patient doctor will take the time to explain your condition in a way that you will understand.
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Additionally, we recommend that you take someone along with you to your appointments. It could be a friend or family member who will be by your side and help you voice your concerns or mention points you may forget to say. The National Cancer Institute has made a guide available on approaching your doctor to ensure effective communication. You can read it by clicking here.
3) Build a support system
Anxiety and depression are often common side effects of cancer, which may push one to isolate themself. In many cases, this can often be more difficult to manage than cancer itself. People often consider themselves a burden once they are diagnosed with cancer and choose not to seek help. This is especially true for those who have been healthy all their lives. It will not be easy to speak about your condition, and it can be a frightening experience, but you must reach out to your loved ones for support – there is no shame in that.
Before doing so, you can mentally prepare yourself by putting together a list of people you trust will respond in a way that will be uplifting to you. It doesn’t matter if the list is small. Then, start by sharing the news with those you are closest to, and if possible, speak to them in person rather than on the phone – especially when you break the news. Make sure you have time to express yourself without interruptions. As you talk, they might even raise some concerns you have not considered, so feel free to write those points down so that you can share them with your doctor later. Doing so will help your friend/confidant feel they have contributed, and it will reassure you that you are not alone.
4) Don’t discount online support groups
Although we must be mindful of accepting medical advice online, some excellent support groups can be found on the internet. For example, in her TED talk, Dr. Liz O’Riordan, an oncoplastic breast surgeon in the U.K. who experienced breast cancer herself, spoke about how she unexpectedly found emotional and practical support through social media.
Aside from online communities, there are plenty of support groups dedicated to cancer dotted across the globe. You can find the one nearest to you with a simple online search. You could also check with your doctor or at a local physician’s office for a list of local support groups. Also, feel free to join our online community on Instagram or Facebook. Speaking to those who have or are going through a similar situation can be valuable and helpful in your journey towards treatment and recovery.
5) Don’t let anger and grief bring you down
Anger and grief are popular villains in a cancer story, and they can often be destructive. Make a conscious effort not to linger on negative thoughts or self-pity. Instead, strive to convert those negative thoughts into positive affirmations by keeping a journal. You can keep track of your emotions and process them. It is okay to feel angry and aggrieved, but remember that it is not okay to let your diagnosis dictate your entire life from that point forward. Researchers have documented that positive growth can occur after traumatic experiences like serious illness, disability, etc.
Make a conscious decision not to let cancer take over your life, and learn to accept that it is just one of the many obstacles we have to face in life, and remember that it neither defines you nor weakens you. True, you will need to make some adjustments to address this issue. However, your interests and activities can continue to give you happiness, and you may even find that your new circumstances open up new doors and opportunities for you.
Final Thoughts
Above all, don’t forget that a cancer diagnosis is not the end, and there is no right or wrong way to deal with it. You need to hold on tight to hope and have a robust support system that will accompany you through this patch of life. As they say, if you want to walk far, walk together.
If you feel depressed or overwhelmed regarding your cancer diagnosis and cannot overcome your emotions, please reach out to our experts at the Budwig Center, who are always here to help you. And consider enrolling in our Remote Cancer Program, which include emotional treatments.
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