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Coping With Mesothelioma

Coping with a diagnosis of mesothelioma - an aggressive disease with a frequently poor prognosis - can seem overwhelming. People with mesothelioma often find themselves facing the possibility of their own death. However, by focusing on living with mesothelioma instead of on dying, patients may learn to better manage this disease. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, there are several options you can consider for dealing with your illness.

• Arm yourself with knowledge. As part of the coping process, you may decide to learn everything you can about mesothelioma. Part of this is taking an active part in your treatment planning. You might choose to bring a friend or family member to your doctor appointments to take notes and help you remember what your doctor tells you. When speaking to your healthcare provider, you might ask for resources to help you learn and understand what to expect from your disease and how to decide on treatment options. The National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society can also provide you with information. Knowledge will make you feel more confident and prepared when you are faced with tough decisions.
  
  
• Rely on your personal support network. If you are used to being independent, it may be hard to accept help. Remember that your loved ones want to help you. Therefore, you may wish to ask for their help, and accept it when they offer it. If you are facing a mesothelioma diagnosis, you may want to allow family or friends to take care of details like providing a ride to a medical appointment or mowing your lawn.
  
  
• Share your feelings. Coping with a diagnosis of mesothelioma is a tough battle, and no one expects you to face it by yourself. It may help you to talk to others on a regular basis. This includes sharing your joys, your sorrows and your fears, as well as your treatment plan. Your health care team can give you information about cancer support groups in your area, where you can meet other people in your situation. If you experience difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, feelings of hopelessness or sadness, or other signs of depression lasting more than a few days, you may want to call your doctor.
  
  
• Develop stress management techniques that work for you. Prayer, meditation, deep breathing, hot baths or even light exercise may improve your ability to cope with your mesothelioma diagnosis. Music provides great therapy for some people, and laughter can be helpful in managing anxiety.
  
  
• Take an active role in your own treatment. You may wish to listen to your body, monitor changes and consider calling your doctor if you have concerns. Another option for coping with mesothelioma is to stay informed about new discoveries and treatments. Since researchers are working constantly to find new ways to fight this disease, you might ask your doctor how new treatments can work for you.
  
  

There are many options for making yourself more comfortable while coping with a diagnosis of mesothelioma. Exploring different alternatives will help you find the solution that's right for you.