Many people diagnosed with cancer can experience a range of emotions and have trouble coping with their diagnosis, symptoms, treatment and/or the impact of cancer on life. Distress, which is a mix of emotional, social, spiritual or physical pain or suffering, may lead to sadness, feeling helpless, isolation, lack of sleep or appetite, trouble concentrating, among other issues. 1
It can affect the way you think and feel, and make it difficult to manage your care and make decisions. These feelings are normal and treating distress is an important part of treating cancer. Your healthcare team needs a complete picture of your health, both physical and emotional. Signs of distress can sometimes be confused with symptoms associated with cancer treatment and can be overlooked.
Think of staying in tune with your emotional health as a vital sign that’s just as important as checking your temperature or blood pressure. It can be difficult to talk about distress and its impact, but keeping track and sharing this with your healthcare team is important in managing your mental health over time. You may be referred to a psychologist, psychiatrist and/or social worker. Support may include support groups, therapy or counseling, social services, educational sessions, meditation and relaxation techniques, stress management, exercise, spiritual support and/or medications. Learn more about how to manage and cope with your emotions.
You can find a few resources below to help you track your emotions, distress and or
manage your mental health over time.
Many people diagnosed with cancer can experience a range of emotions and have trouble coping with their diagnosis, symptoms, treatment and/or the impact of cancer on life. Distress, which is a mix of emotional, social, spiritual or physical pain or suffering, may lead to sadness, feeling helpless, isolation, lack of sleep or appetite, trouble concentrating, among other issues. 1
It can affect the way you think and feel, and make it difficult to manage your care and make decisions. These feelings are normal and treating distress is an important part of treating cancer. Your healthcare team needs a complete picture of your health, both physical and emotional. Signs of distress can sometimes be confused with symptoms associated with cancer treatment and can be overlooked.
Think of staying in tune with your emotional health as a vital sign that’s just as important as checking your temperature or blood pressure. It can be difficult to talk about distress and its impact, but keeping track and sharing this with your healthcare team is important in managing your mental health over time. You may be referred to a psychologist, psychiatrist and/or social worker. Support may include support groups, therapy or counseling, social services, educational sessions, meditation and relaxation techniques, stress management, exercise, spiritual support and/or medications. Learn more about how to manage and cope with your emotions.
You can find a few resources below to help you track your emotions, distress and or manage your mental health over time.
