Related Topics ► Other TopicsThe Emotional Issues of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a disease that is inherently difficult to cope with, as very few people have ever beat this form of cancer. A mesothelioma diagnosis often results in the patient falling into a dismal state as they face the serious reality of dealing with such an aggressive cancer. However, through the help of counseling and family support, mesothelioma patients can cope with the struggles inherent in fighting cancer.
One of the most common emotional responses is anger. This anger can become directed toward loved ones, as well as internally for allowing oneself to become exposed to asbestos. Anger can also be directed at doctors for not doing enough to cure the patient. All these feelings are normal, and every patient should strive to examine them, control them, and let them go.
Another common feeling is helplessness and the temptation to give up. Getting caught up in these emotions will not help the situation, and there is still a good chance that survival rates could exceed the average. Treatment can be painful and difficult, but many patients try to push through the difficulty to be with their family for another year or more.
Other typical emotions that are felt throughout mesothelioma treatment include dread or fear. Patients might dread treatments, which can be painful as well as sickening. They may dread people asking about their health or having to talk about the disease in general. Many patients will also likely dread or fear the idea of death.
A feeling that many may not think about, but may be just as dangerous, is a feeling of relief. Patients could potentially feel glad that their life is about to end, and that they know where and how they will go. This can be just as dangerous as the previous emotions covered, and should be examined carefully. A counselor can help patients and their families to sort through all of these feelings and help them to regain control to go on with life.
Sources:
- http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Support/end-of-life-care
- http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MBC/MBC_2x_OtherEffects.asp
- http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MBC/content/MBC_2_3x_Anxiety_and_Fear.asp?sitearea=MBC
- http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MBC/content/MBC_2_3X_Depression.asp?sitearea=MBC
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