Being diagnosed with lung cancer can be an isolating experience. Lung cancer is a highly stigmatized condition due to its connotations and can bring feelings of shame and guilt to lung cancer patients.
While it is possible to be diagnosed with lung cancer without ever smoking, most lung cancer patients are long-term smokers. Due to this connection, most smokers feel that they are to blame for their diagnosis and this may lead to feelings that they are undeserving of treatment or help.
Consequently, lung cancer patients report increased levels of anxiety depression when compared to other cancer patients.
Like all cancer patients, it is important to maintain strong bonds and invest in self-care to help with the difficult feelings that come with any type of cancer.
Implementing any or all of these activities into your self-care routine can make a huge difference in your mental and emotional health.
Therapy: Therapy can be an effective way to talk to about difficult thoughts and feelings you may be having after diagnosis and during treatment. Therapy provides an avenue to express yourself with someone who is external to your life and can provide a balanced opinion.
A cancer diagnosis can shift your world entirely; a therapist can give tips on how to deal with major life changes and process a tough diagnosis. Additionally, counseling sessions can provide tools to navigate through this stage in your life.
Try using your health insurance to find a therapist or use websites like Zencare to find counselors in your area or virtual therapists.