How Can I Help My Spouse Now That They Are Diagnosed With Cancer?

A diagnosis is no longer the death sentence it once was. The American Cancer Society states that 13.7 million people have survived cancer, as of 2012. New treatments and technologies are helping people to live for many years after a cancer diagnosis. One of the most important adjuncts of treatment is the support of spouses and family members. If your spouse has been diagnosed with cancer, there are a number of ways you can help them through the difficult emotional and physical phases that can occur during treatment.

When Your Loved One Is Diagnosed

The day of diagnosis may be one of the most monumental days of the individual’s life. It is a time when people must come face-to-face with their own mortality. Previous feelings of power, health, confidence and control may be shattered when faced with the prospect of cancer treatment and possible death.. After the cancer diagnosis, loved ones will experience a number of different emotions and thoughts, some of which may be disturbing to hear. Resist the urge to try to “fix” the situation for them and just let them verbalize the depth and variety of issues that have come to mind. This is a time when the spouse should encourage the patient to talk about their feelings and express your own feelings. This honesty can bring you closer for the task ahead. Reassure the patient that you will be there for them, whatever happens, and commit to working as a team to achieve the best outcome possible.

Planning For Treatment

Cancer treatment can be an absorbing experience that requires a great deal of time, energy and emotional upheaval. Be frank in planning for childcare, financial needs, time away from work and other practical matters that must be arranged. Discuss how family and friends should be told about the diagnosis. Offer to be the gatekeeper for phone calls and visits. If possible, do preparatory work that will make life easier while you concentrate on treatment, such as stocking food in the pantry and making your home easier to maintain.

When Treatment Begins

Cancer treatment can become a maze of appointments, procedures, results and communications. You can help your spouse by taking over the job of organized these matters. It is likely there will be times when the individual does not feel physically well or emotionally strong enough to manage these matters. This assistance can be particularly important in case the individual experiences “chemo brain” during treatment. This condition causes confusion and memory problems as a result of chemotherapy. You can allow your loved one to concentrate on getting well by being the “go-to” person for these important issues. Be supportive of the individual’s personal needs and

Caregivers Must Care For Themselves

The task of caring for someone who is under treatment for cancer can be exhausting. It’s also important for caregivers to do those small things that help them to feel more rested and more normal. Get your hair done or take time to go shopping. Have a drink with friends or engage in your favorite hobby. Be aware that burnout can happen and try to care for yourself while caring for the loved one with cancer.

Individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer embark on a journey back to health that can be physically difficult and emotionally taxing. These actions can aid their treatment and recovery, as well as deepen your relationship.

http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/content/@research/documents/webcontent/acspc-042151.pdf

http://health.clevelandclinic.org/2014/03/how-you-can-help-a-spouse-with-cancer/

http://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatmentsandsideeffects/emotionalsideeffects/copingwithcancerineverydaylife/a-message-of-hope-for-spouses-families-friends

 

Source: CellMark Biopharma

from CellMark Biopharma http://www.cellmarkbiopharma.com