Coping

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I Can Cope: A Guide for Helping Yourself Cope With Cancer

  1. Be good to yourself. Treat yourself with the same love and compassion you would demonstrate for your best friend.
  2. Take care of your physical needs. Get enough sleep and eat nutritious meals.
  3. Stay informed about your illness. Read, ask questions of your medical staff-repeatedly, if necessary-and tap the resources of local support groups.
  4. Seek and accept professional help of all kinds, including physical therapy, psychological support and spiritual assistance.
  5. Stay as active as possible. Continue to participate in meaningful and enjoyable activities, even if walking, reading or calling a friend on the telephone is all you can do.
  6. Confide in your spouse, family members, friends and coworkers about your needs and concerns. Don't isolate yourself-keep communications open.
  7. Cry often. Scream if you feel like it. Be sad or get mad if it helps. Then get on with your day.
  8. Share your feelings with someone in a similar situation, but remember that circumstances will never be identical.
  9. Don't hesitate to let your doctor know how you are feeling and what you're thinking.
  10. Believe in yourself. Play, work, love, set realistic goals and reach for them. Think in terms of the future. And, above all, hope.
  11. Be receptive to others. Ask for and accept help without feeling guilty or obligated to repay the favors.
  12. Decrease stress by making plans for your family's security and getting your finances in order.
  13. Accept losing some control. You do not always have to be in control.
  14. Conserve your energy by arranging your daily activities according to priority.
  15. Keep your sense of humor. Remember that illness is not inconsistent with moments of laughter. A good laugh is just as effective in relieving tension as tears.
  16. If you have difficulty verbalizing feelings, try using a tape recorder or writing letters to share your concerns with family and friends.
  17. Be kind to yourself. Don't deny yourself some small luxury or pleasure. Splurge once in a while if it makes you feel better.

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Denise Snow M.D.
Denise Snow M.D.
Oncology – Medical
Hematology

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