You won’t immediately feel empowered after being told you have cancer. In fact, being upset, overwhelmed, and unsure about the future are all natural reactions. However, once the shock wears off and you hear more about your treatment options and prognosis, your mood and state of mind may start to shift from one of shock and fear to one of empowerment.
Rather than dwelling on the uncertainties of your illness, you can focus on the parts of your health and life that you can control. If you’re tired of letting your illness control you, strive to become empowered in the following ways:
Be Involved In Your Own Care
No matter your diagnosis, be it epithelioid mesothelioma, breast cancer, bone cancer, or another form, don’t underestimate the value of being involved in your own care to regain a sense of control. Cancer may have all the control with making you sick, but it doesn’t control the next steps you take and how you feel about your treatment journey.
The road to newfound empowerment can begin with being your own advocate. As you start meeting your new healthcare team, ask questions about your diagnosis and options. The more questions you ask, the more informed you can be.
If you aren’t sure what questions to ask or what information will be important, prepare a list in advance. You may also find it helpful to bring a trusted family member or friend to your appointment so they can take notes while you listen.
Take Control of Your Daily Life
It’s easy to feel as though you don’t have control when cancer is planning your journey for you. However, you do have the freedom to control many aspects of your everyday life and even unlock personal growth.
If your daily routine has changed due to your diagnosis and treatment, establish a new one that will help you create a sense of normalcy. For example, if you’re no longer employed because your treatment interferes, you may start your day with a short walk to replace the time you would have spent getting ready for work.
Taking control can also involve prioritizing your wellness. While you don’t need to go to the gym, you might aim to go for a mood-boosting walk, then have a balanced, nutritious breakfast to start your day.
Look After Your Emotional Health
Being empowered doesn’t mean being strong and pushing down your feelings. In fact, looking after your emotional health is a key part of empowerment. Acknowledge and express the feelings that arise, such as sadness, fear, or anger. You may choose to talk to a loved one about how you’re feeling, or discuss your emotions with a therapist.
Many people living with cancer also find that journaling helps them process their feelings and take care of their emotional health. When you’re feeling anxious or stressed, explore mindfulness and relaxation techniques that ease your mind, body, and soul, such as meditation, yoga, tai chi, or deep breathing.
Set Boundaries
You’re about to start one of the biggest fights of your life, and it’s one that will require all of your energy, determination, and effort. This can mean that you aren’t able to give as much of yourself to others as you might have done before. Setting boundaries is crucial for ensuring you have enough energy for your fight. This can mean saying no to visitors or activities that you know will require too much of your energy and focus.
As scary as a cancer diagnosis is, it doesn’t have to stop you from being the vibrant and strong person you are. Feel empowered after your diagnosis by prioritizing your health and well-being, setting boundaries, and being fully involved in your own care. You deserve to be in the driver’s seat of your cancer, not the other way around.
