A cancer diagnosis is one of the scariest and most difficult diagnoses you can receive. It might seem like your world has just been shattered into small pieces because you may know some people who did not have great outcomes after receiving their diagnosis. You might feel overwhelmed, and you might even begin spiraling. However, medicine has come so far that most forms of cancer are now treatable, and facing a cancer diagnosis and everything it means and comes with is something you can actually prepare for. This article is meant to give you some tips that can show you where to start and what to do to make this journey easier.
Understand the Disease
One of the first things you should do after getting your diagnosis is to find out everything you can about the type of cancer you have. You may have some preconceived notions about this particular form of cancer or even unfounded fears about the treatment options. Research should make things a lot clearer, and help you understand cancer as well as its treatments better.
If you can, schedule a few appointments with your oncologist so you can ask as many questions as you can. The oncologist will also push you to ask some questions and think about things differently. Do not be afraid to speak your mind because this should be a productive discussion about your future.
Ask How Much Time You Have to Start Treatment
Most people think that once they receive the diagnosis, they have to begin the treatment that afternoon. Many oncology doctors recommend that you take the time to understand your diagnosis, do some research as discussed above, and get a second opinion.
If you are still concerned that you did not get the right diagnosis or need a second opinion, do see an oncologist before you go any further. The oncology doctors at the Circle Health Group will help with additional assessment and diagnosis so you have a clearer picture of the treatment options available to you. You can book an appointment with any of them or even find a nearby private hospital for your cancer treatment using their handy search tools.
All of this will only be possible if you ask how much time you have to make a decision and start treatment. If you can, try to get treatment as soon as you can because some cancers are progressive and will get a lot worse before you get a chance to do the research, get a second opinion, or start treatment.
Be Prepared for Powerful Emotions and Some Confusion
Many cancer survivors say that they were confused after their initial diagnosis to the point where they could not make any decisions. Some were filled with dread and sadness, while some got depressed thinking that their diagnosis meant the end was near. These are just some of the emotions that may wash over you a few hours or even days after your diagnosis and once the initial shock wears off.
The best thing to do is to be prepared for these emotions with various coping tools. You can find someone to talk to when things get too overwhelming or use tools like meditation and yoga to calm your mind. You will also likely be rough and tough around the people you love because you might feel like you are alone in most moments. Leaning on them to show them they matter will also make you understand that they do and are an important part of your treatment and recovery.
Change Your Attitude
Numerous studies have concluded that there is a direct relationship between a positive attitude and positive medical outcomes. This includes cancer because many of the people who go into their treatments thinking and knowing they can beat the disease will more often than not succeed. Remember that you have a choice of how you feel and act after the diagnosis. It will be difficult to get into the right mind frame so you can have a positive attitude. But getting through this and having a great and winning attitude even in cases where you do not feel like you cannot do it will make a huge difference.
Get Your Insurance in Order
Many people do not want to think about insurance and finances when dealing with a cancer diagnosis. The sad fact is that this is an inescapable part of getting better. Take the time to ask a financial advisor or trusted colleague to look at your policy for you. Tell them to look at anything that can and will be covered by insurance.
Cancer can be a devastating diagnosis, and it can be very confusing trying to find your balance after receiving such news. However, knowing what to do and expect in that situation can help make things easier for you and your loved one.
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