Being anxious is a normal part of life. Every body has had a time in their lives when they feel a bit anxious or nervous, exams, first day of school or a job interview. We all go through these situations in life where some level of stress triggers our emotions and our mental state.
When it comes to dealing with those emotions it’s up to us to choose how we respond to them. I have experienced these bouts of normal anxiousness before but nothing like I've experienced through a cancer diagnosis and treatment. It's a process that takes time and the best way to not get overwhelmed is by taking it step by step. When I first got diagnosed my initial response was to focus on how to get rid of the cancer and to fight it every step of the way, surgery first, results then on to treatment. It all felt very logical, and I hadn't really thought about what a huge deal it was and just tried to keep going with as much positivity as I could muster. Having a positive mindset of course can help mental well being enormously but at times you must allow yourself to feel all of the emotions and not just the positive ones this will help you accept and process the situation a lot easier.
Just before my 4th chemo cycle I felt a real low point mentally although I'd reached the half way point I still had 3 more to go and although the end is in sight it still feels slightly out of reach. Here are a few of my own personal tips to try and keep those anxious thoughts and feelings at bay.
Stop reading too much online
I think everyone is guilty of this at some point, trying to self-diagnose that twinge or pain on Dr. Google, or looking too much on social media and reading horror stories on forums. I definitely have done this when looking at other people on social media and comparing their side effects to what might happen to me. The bottom line with treatment is that everyone's journey is different and many are on different combinations of drugs, others might have other health issues that effect their treatment and as with every single side effect on a drugs packet it is unlikely that you will experience them all. If it's all too tempting to keep checking then I would recommend a break from social media and even the news which I also find can effect my mood if it's all doom and gloom.
Distract yourself with a calming activity
This is a good way to re-focus the mind on the task in hand, try colouring in, drawing or painting or something like crochet or knitting. It keeps your hands and mind busy and it also stops you scrolling for hours on end and provides a sense of achievement. I have also downloaded a Mindfulness app which helps with relaxation and breathing techniques.
Get into a juicy box set or a good podcast
Sometimes if you're feeling totally rubbish a bit of escapism is all you need, try a comedy box set or funny film with a cosy blanket and your favourite snacks. Also I find listening to a good podcast before bed can be quite relaxing and helps me sleep easier. Taking pleasure in these little things are all little wins and anything that makes you feel good or puts a smile on your face is a definite win!
Get outside
The power of green space and a bit of fresh air really does do wonders for your mental health. At the moment I'm trying to get out for a walk everyday and just to take in my surroundings get me out of the house and have some gentle exercise which is important throughout treatment. If I can't get out then I try to do some yoga which also helps with relaxation and breathing another important one to tackle those anxious thoughts.
Put your feelings down in words
Finally put down your feelings into a journal or notebook. I had a Wellness journal for Christmas just before my diagnosis ironically but I find it does help to write in it regularly and helps me to process my feelings and look at what I am thankful for which helps put things in perspective. It also allows me to look back on my progress through this moment in time. It doesn't matter if no one else reads it, the point of journalling is it's just for you and I do find this has always helped a great deal when I've been through challenging times. Try to remember that if you are going through any tough time, that it won't last and you will come through the other side.
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