Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Dealing with Mesothelioma -- 5 Ways to Cope

By Jason Lee

Due to the nature of mesothelioma, it's often not detected for a long time, which renders everything far more difficult. Are you dealing with this problem, or know someone that is? Here are five things that could help.

#5: Questions Are Good

There's no reason not to ask as many questions as humanly possible when you receive a cancer diagnosis -- it's essential.

#4: There's Nothing Wrong with Privacy

Once you've been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you'll obviously need to share the information with your immediate family. They'll be your most crucial support during treatment, and although breaking the news can be terribly difficult, once it's 'out there' the support process begins.

#3: Don't Be Afraid to Reach Out

There are plenty of groups that also aid your family in dealing with the experience of having a close relative with cancer -- they are worth speaking to.

#2: Nothing Wrong With Alternative Methods

Although you should always talk to your doctor when it comes to actually treating the cancer itself, there are many therapies available to deal with the pain of cancer treatment, as well as the stress and anxiety that come with a diagnosis. While these are not officially procedures, the idea of direct treatment for your pain symptoms is often very powerful -- even if it only creates a placebo effect -- and is worth pursuing.

#1: Professional Therapy is often Invaluable

Sometimes you can't talk about all the problems mesothelioma is causing you with your closest family members -- the proximity is just too difficult. Same goes for the family of a cancer sufferer. If this is the case, there are many therapists and psychologists available to help. Sometimes, professional help can provide the balance that's missing when everything is kept within a family unit.

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