Saturday, January 11, 2014

How A Cancer Social Network Is An Invaluable Lifeline For Those Suffering With The Disease

By Marissa Velazquez


Having a cancer diagnosis can seem like the end of the world. Those around you may have the best of intentions, but they can never truly understand what you are going through. A cancer social network is an amazing way to connect with people who will fully understand your experience and provide that all-important boost to your morale.

Being told that they have cancer can for many unleash a tidal wave of emotions. They find themselves assailed by fear, grief, anger and other strong feelings. The fear of death is of course one of the most difficult-to-handle feelings that can arise. A cancer diagnosis is probably the most common way for people to be confronted with this deep-seated fear, and it can be a very isolating experience.

Some sufferers find themselves mourning the loss of the life they may never have. All of those happy family events they may never experience, the travelling they may never do, the business or career triumphs they may never have. This can be a heavy load for many, and hugely challenging to come to terms with.

There are many other implications to consider, too, and many newly diagnosed people are assailed with questions and fears in those first few days and weeks. Younger adults with families worry about the wives, husbands and children they will leave behind. They worry about how they will cope, financially and otherwise without their support.

Fears regarding impending treatment regimes are also a common concern. Treatments for this disease can of course be long, painful and debilitating. Some wish to keep their illness to themselves and fear others finding out. They may worry about being sidelined and seen as less valid individuals. This can be a huge fear for those who value their strength and competence.

Those confronting these issues often find their doctors, families, friends and colleagues are simply not able to fully understand what they are going through. Connecting with supportive people who do understand can be an enormous boost to morale. This psychological support is important as patients need to stay positive and not allow themselves to fall prey to despondency.

Something that can be hugely therapeutic for sufferers is for them to share their story. Expressing strong feelings in writing can be a tremendous way to unload psychological baggage. Anger, fears, worries and other turmoil can become much less intense when they are shared with others who understand. This can bring not only emotional calm but also clarity and perspective about one's situation.

Joining a cancer social network is easily one of the smartest things one can do when facing this nightmare disease. Being able to answers to difficult questions from people who understand your predicament is an incredible help. Having a support network of friendly, positive people is also a resource that can make a massive difference to one's morale. These days, cancer need not be a death sentence, connecting with others in the same situation is the best aid to survival, both physical and emotional.




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