Obviously there are all kinds of emotions associated with getting a diagnosis of cancer. Most of us can empathize, but unless you're in that situation it is difficult to really understand the feelings a person experiences.
And, it can be frustrating to try to find the words to explain how you're feeling to others.
Cancerbackup writes:
On the left side of this page you will see a list of emotions one may experience when dealing with a cancer diagnosis. If nothing else, the coping strategies they discuss may help you through this time...and help you feel understood, and less alone.
"STAY POSITIVE!"
This is impossible to do at the best of times - all the time. It's perfectly natural, and normal to feel awful, and depressed. When someone tells you to remain positive all the time, it can be frustrating:
And, it can be frustrating to try to find the words to explain how you're feeling to others.
Cancerbackup writes:
A diagnosis of cancer often means we experience a whole range of emotions. These may include shock, anxiety, sadness, relief, uncertainty and for some people, depression. This section gives information on some of the emotions you may have and aims to help you manage them. It includes suggestions of how you can help yourself as well as other sources of help and support.
On the left side of this page you will see a list of emotions one may experience when dealing with a cancer diagnosis. If nothing else, the coping strategies they discuss may help you through this time...and help you feel understood, and less alone.
"STAY POSITIVE!"
This is impossible to do at the best of times - all the time. It's perfectly natural, and normal to feel awful, and depressed. When someone tells you to remain positive all the time, it can be frustrating:
Positive thinking means different things to different people. However, generally it is about facing up to the situation, and finding ways of coping with it. People do this in many ways. What works for one person may not work for another.
When you talk to people with cancer, even the most positive of them will admit to low times when they felt depressed and anxious. No one can be positive 100% of the time. It’s important that you don’t feel that you must always stay on top of things. Being positive doesn’t mean having to feel happy and cheerful all the time. It’s a positive thing to acknowledge and talk about your feelings – even when you’re feeling tired, worried, depressed or angry.
There may be times when you want to talk about a difficult topic like the chance of the cancer being cured or making a will. Comments about being positive are then not always helpful - in fact, they can be very upsetting.
