Question

A client with two young children is diagnosed with breast cancer. The client says, "This is the worst time in my life. How can I adjust to all of this without losing it?

Answer 1

Answer and Explanation:

According to the National Cancer Institute, there are different strategies for a patient to adjust or cope with a life with [breast] cancer. Although it may feel like an extremely difficult process at first, learning to cope with cancer can help the patient have a better quality of life.

First and foremost, the patient should receive professional help - this could be achieved by visiting a specialist (psychologist or psychiatrist) to learn more about the diagnosis and how to adjust to life changes. This is also fundamental for the family members as they can learn different strategies to help the patient.

It is also helpful to attend support groups - this could help the patient as he/she can learn from different experiences and diverse coping methods that have worked with other people who are going through a same situation.

Also, specialists from the institute suggest to continue with regular routines if possible - this enables an individual to keep feeling positive emotions such as joy and happiness. Moreover, doing exercise is extremely beneficial for patients as well as mental exercises such as playing board games that keep their mind away from negative thoughts.