Anxiety happens when people are under stress. A cancer diagnosis is a BIG STRESSOR. I’m sorry. It is very difficult to hear the words , “you have cancer”. Please know that cancer can be cured and you don’t have to be alone during your treatment. I’ve been a registered nurse for 37 years and my specialty is cancer nursing. Some form of anxiety hits almost every one when they are told they have cancer.
The first thing I suggest is to take a deep breath. It sounds simple but people have studied what a good old fashioned deep breath can do for your mind and body. A deep breath can help reverse the physical effects of anxiety on your body.
You can take a deep breath right now and anywhere… any time. So take a deep breath and blow out to the count of 6. With the next breath, breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth (like you are blowing up a balloon) to the count of 6. Take more time breathing out than in. You can think of it as blowing away the stress. As you breathe out let your shoulders come down away from your ears.
Then call your doctor or cancer center and ask to speak to a cancer counselor. Most cancer treatment centers have a stress management therapist. I often recommend both, especially to begin with. They can help you through your entire treatment course and afterwards, too.
Talk to your doctor about your feelings of anxiety and what it is doing to you. Doctors are familiar with this and your doctor may prescribe something that may help you.
Please remember you are not alone and you don’t need to go through treatment with out a whole bunch of help. Get to know your cancer team. The doctors, nurses and social workers/counselors are there for you.
Wishing you well. You are in my prayers.
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