Emotional Changes
A cancer diagnosis can make it hard to cope. And the emotional impact can affect the way you relate to other people in your life. Each woman’s reaction is different. The feelings you experience can range from anger to helplessness.
While you cope with cancer, you still have to deal with the stress of everyday life. How much stress you are feeling at the time you are diagnosed will affect the way you cope. In addition to stress, there are multiple factors that affect your ability to cope. These include:
- the stage of the disease when it is diagnosed
- what social support you have
- your health status at the time of diagnosis
- what cancer means to you personally
- your past coping styles
- history of anxiety
- history of depression
Your emotional status will affect and be affected by your relationships. For instance, problems in your relationship when the cancer is diagnosed can cause more stress in trying to cope with the diagnosis. This can have a negative effect on your sexuality and intimacy.
Depression can cause changes in behavior. So can anxiety. Both can also cause you to withdraw from relationships. Communication is a healthy way to share your concerns, fears, and anxieties. You should not only talk about your fears and concerns with your partner, but with your health care team too. Anxiety and feelings of losing control are normal responses. But to continue your daily activities and maintain healthy relationships, you may need help. For example, you may need anti-anxiety medications. Or you may need to talk to a therapist. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, guided imagery, and journaling can help reduce anxiety.