5 Daily Life Coping Tips During Cancer Treatment

1. Anticipate change

You might feel relieved to finally start treating the cancer. But everyone’s journey is unique. And it’s natural for your mindset to keep changing. You may have days when you feel positive and hopeful, while other days may be more challenging. Be kind to yourself. Don’t judge your feelings as they come up.

You might also find that your roles and responsibilities in your family, work, or social circles change, too. For instance, you may need to take a step back from household chores or delegate jobs to colleagues. Feel uncomfortable asking for help? Remember that it’s important to let go of some tasks so you can focus on your health and well-being.

2. Stay flexible

Even if you have the same treatment plan for weeks or months, know that your body may react differently from day to day. Don’t get frustrated if you don’t have the same energy as before. Be flexible. And remember that symptoms can come and go quickly.

It’s common to have fatigue, nausea, pain, and other symptoms that can impact your daily life. But making simple changes to your routine or work schedule can help manage these side effects

Also keep an open mind about the resources your healthcare team suggests, including things like:

• Massage therapy

• Yoga and breathing exercises

• Muscle relaxation and visualization methods

• Nutritional counseling

• Individual or family counseling

• Support groups

• Occupational or physical therapy

• Acupuncture

3. Be mindful of symptoms

There’s no way around it: Cancer treatment can cause side effects. It’s natural to worry about side effects, but everyone experiences treatment differently. Some won’t have many side effects, while others will.

Pay attention to when symptoms happen and what makes them better or worse. This information will help your healthcare provider find the best way to manage your symptoms. Be sure you know when to report symptoms to your provider.

4. Prioritize mental health

So much of cancer care focuses on the physical. But it’s important to look after your mental health, too. One way to do this is to set aside time each day to focus on your inner strength. Look in the mirror and remind yourself of all the things you’re capable of, even if you’re feeling down or tired.

For times when you’re overwhelmed, it can help to have a certain space where you can go to unwind and relax. This could be a cozy corner in your bedroom, a spot in nature, or a house of worship. Whatever it is, make sure it’s a place where you feel comfortable and at peace.

It may help to speak with a counselor. Ask your healthcare team for a referral if needed. There also may be someone on staff you can speak to.

5. Get ahead of stress

Cancer can create a lot of stress in your life. But it doesn’t make you powerless—there are still things you can do to help manage that stress and feel better overall. Some ideas include:

• Eating well and getting enough rest each day

• Moving your body in a way that feels good to you, like going for a walk or doing some gentle yoga

• Meditating or just taking a few deep breaths to help you relax

• Listening to a podcast or audiobook

• Playing music and dancing around your living room

• Talking to someone who will listen, like a family member, friend, counselor, or spiritual leader

• Trying a hobby that brings you joy, like painting, knitting, or doing puzzles

• Spending time in nature or doing something else that makes you feel connected to the world around you

• Hugging a loved one or spending time with people who make you happy

Remember, everyone copes with cancer in their own way. So it’s OK if some of these methods don’t work for you. The most important thing is to find ways to ease your stress and take care of yourself. Every little bit helps on your journey to recovery.