Friday, July 29, 2011

Stress Management During Cancer Treatment

All stages of cancer, from diagnosis to treatment, can be stressful for both the patient and his or her family. It may seem at times that stress cannot be avoided, but there are a number of complementary care methods that can relieve worries during treatment. Using these methods to reduce stress may increase your chances of having successful recovery and enjoy future good health.

Begin by monitoring your stress symptoms. Are you experiencing loss of appetite, frequent headaches, anxiety or depression? These can all be signs of stress. The good news is that they can be managed. Identifying your symptoms now will help you plan what methods will be best for you and enable you to track your progress.

Cancer Centers of America tout the importance of having open communication with your doctors. Do not be ashamed to admit you are feeling stress. It is a normal reaction to receiving a diagnosis of cancers like heart, breast or lung cancer or other cancers like mesothelioma. Whether you or a loved one is battling cancer, reaching out to doctors can lessen your stress.

Techniques like meditation, guided imagery and even aromatherapy can help lower your stress level and give you piece of mind. If you are worried about your prognosis, for instance, practice filling your mind with positive thoughts. Yoga and Tai Chi can also provided much needed mental relaxation.

Don't let cancer treatment consume your life. Remember the activities you enjoy and pursue them. Make a dinner date with friends, paint a beautiful landscape or watch that movie you have been dying to see. Going through cancer treatment does not mean you can't have a life too. Continuing to do what you love is always the best way to relieve stress.

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