|
Mesothelioma Cancer Diagnosed Emotions
Mesothelioma Cancer Diagnosed- Dealing With Emotions
People deal with and react to having cancer in different
ways. There really isn't a right or wrong way to behave or
feel regarding this disease and it is easily forgotten that
partners, family and friends will need support as well.
Initial response, not only from the patient, is often
disbelief..."There must be a mistake! The test results must
be wrong!", followed by questions on cures, care and
'anything that you can do for me' issues. Shock sets in.
Naturally the patient will be afraid and unsure about his
future. Though they may not show these reactions outwardly,
they almost certainly will be thinking about them. Don't
assume that just because they appear 'brave' on the outside
that they are 'taking it well'.
Some patients will find it easier to talk with family and
friends about their future than others do. Doing this may
help the patient themselves come to terms with the
diagnosis. Conversely, there are those that find it
difficult to talk about it to anyone. It that is the case
then let them be. The patient has the right to be firm on
the issue, in the short term anyway.
On the other side of the coin, friends and relatives may
appear to be denying the diagnosis, changing the subject and
playing down the patient's worries and anxiety during
conversations. Perhaps its a coping mechanism for some
people. Nevertheless, the patient should confront them about
these responses; they may be hurtful and it isn't going to
help the patient if he/she wishes to discuss the matter.
Anger will almost certainly show itself in one way or
another. Often anger is aimed at those closest to the
patient and the medical staff treating them. Patients shold
not feel guilty about being angry and irritable. It is aimed
at the illness and not others. It might be difficult, but
the patient could explain this to them, or show them
relevant leaflets.
If the patient believes that your mesothelioma was caused by
an employer and exposure to asbestos, they may feel
resentment towards them. They could contact and or join a
group that has been set up to deal with such issues. The
patient may feel some relief through this strategy and there
may even be some legal claim to be instigated.
Some patients may want to be left alone for a period to
'sort themselves out' but friends and relatives may find
this a difficult period as they naturally want to help. The
patient could reassure them that they will discuss the
issues when they are ready.
Strong emotions are to be expected and dealt with. For both
patient, friends and relatives.
-----------------------------------------------------------
(c) Paul Curran, CEO of Cuzcom Internet Publishing Group and
webmaster at Information-on-Mesothelioma.com
[http://www.information-on-mesothelioma.com], providing
providing articles and information on asbestos and
mesothelioma.
-----------------------------------------------------------
|
