Saturday, February 20, 2010

no cancer

Patients, their families and caregivers face depression, anxiety and fear whenever a cancer diagnosis is handed out. These feelings are normal.

Once diagnosed with cancer, there are often questions about how you'll fill your work or family roles. You'll also be concerned with the loss of control over life events.

As your health situation changes, you'll have various stressors and your feelings will change. People with advanced cancer have different concerns than those with early-stage cancer. There are physical symptoms that can cause emotional distress.

Symptoms of anxiety and fear can include anxious facial expression, uncontrolled worry, trouble solving problems, muscle tension, trembling, shaking, dry mouth, angry outbursts and irritability.

Mental health professionals can encourage those who have cancer to share their feelings and help relieve these feelings of stress and anxiety. If you're uncomfortable speaking with a therapist, try speaking with a friend or join a support group. You can use prayers and spiritual support if it helps. Meditation and relaxation exercises also help.

As always, your doctor has experience dealing with these problems and can help you cope. Anti-anxiety and anti-depressants often help.

Check out AOL Health for more information on cancer management.

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