Liu Cuiping, Zhu Dan, Zhang Yikun, Department of Hematology, Characteristic Medical Center (formerly 306 Hospital).
Edited by Liu Yan/Cui Yan, Medical Science Popularization Center
With the advancement of medicine, cancer is no longer an incurable disease, but in the face of the fear of the unknown, the pressure of treatment and the concern of family members, cancer patients often fall into the quagmire of anxiety and confusion. This heavy emotion not only affects their quality of life, but can also become a stumbling block on the road to recovery. So, how can we help cancer patients relieve their anxiety and let them regain the peace and tranquility of their lives?
Identify the source of your anxiety
Most of the anxiety of cancer patients comes from doubts about the treatment party, uncertainty about the adverse reactions in the treatment process, treatment effect and future prognosis, and concern for their families. Moderate anxiety may push us to face difficulties, but excessive anxiety may lead to autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and may also be accompanied by psychomotor restlessness, and even allergies, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, weight loss, etc. Therefore, excessive anxiety will only become a constraint for us, and we need to seek medical attention as soon as possible and be guided by a professional.
Say goodbye to anxiety
(1) Establish correct cognition: through in-depth communication with doctors, participate in tumor knowledge lectures, etc., to understand the disease and treatment, and find support for your own heart.
(2) Positive communication: Open your heart, share your inner struggles and confusion with family and friends, and let love and support become a harbor for the soul.
(3) Exercise and meditation: Exercise releases stress, while meditation allows us to return to our hearts and find peace.
(4) Regular life: A good work and rest and diet are the cornerstones of physical and mental health, and they are also a powerful weapon to resist anxiety.
Defend our spiritual home together
The care of family members and the support of society are important forces to alleviate the anxiety of cancer patients. A look of encouragement, a warm hug can be a motivation for them to get back on their feet. At the same time, social tolerance and understanding are also the key to their extrication.
I once met a lung cancer patient at work, and after learning about his condition, I fell into a deep fear. Fortunately, through our psychological guidance and encouragement, he finally chose to bravely go out of the house and join a support group for cancer patients. In his interactions with other patients, he found empathy and strength, and also learned how to live peacefully with anxiety.
Prevention first
Preventing cancer knowledge in advance and cultivating healthy lifestyle habits can not only reduce the risk of disease, but also reduce anxiety caused by disease.
In short, in the face of tumors, instead of letting anxiety bind the mind, it is better to fight it bravely. As long as we face up to the disease, face it bravely, and support our families and society, the anxiety of cancer patients will be alleviated. May every life be at peace and love.
(The picture comes from the Internet)