When you are going through cancer treatment, it is safe to say that a lot is going to change, mentally and physically.
However, to cope with these changes in a more effective way, many people put practices in place that can help them better manage their stress and connect with other people, both of which are beneficial for well-being.
So, if you are undergoing cancer treatment or are about to begin cancer treatment, read on for how best to balance your mental well-being with your physical state.
Take Short Breaks
OK, so most people who have cancer are going to feel fatigued due to the treatment that they are receiving, whether it is radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Even if you are at home and are not working due to the illness, or if you are continuing to work, take short breaks throughout the day. The Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa and other cancer treatment centers will advise you to do something enjoyable during these breaks, such as reading a book, watching something funny on YouTube, or even doing a quick yoga session if you can manage it.
Establish a Bedtime Routine
When you are undertaking cancer treatment, one of the main things that is likely to be impacted is your sleep. Many people who are undertaking chemotherapy experience frequent waking during the night, as well as bouts of insomnia.
This is irritating and can also lead to fatigue, but if you establish a bedtime routine or improve your sleep hygiene, this can help you feel more rested and better manage your mental health and well-being.
Eat Fresh Fruit
A lot of people enjoy eating fruit every now and again, especially something simple and on the go, like an apple or an orange. However, there is a bit more to it than this; eating fruit increases vitamin C levels, which help with the creation of feel-good brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine. This can help you to feel more positive and creative during your cancer treatment, as well as provide you with a tasty treat. Remember, there are many different fruits out there that most people have never tried, so why not mix it up a bit and see if you can find a new fruit combination that you will enjoy?
Seek Support
It is safe to say that when most people are going through cancer treatment, they feel (for one reason or another) that they have to go it alone. This is not true and can be damaging to a person’s mental health. So, ask your doctor or nurse about cancer support groups online or in your area. These can allow you a space where you can talk about your experiences with other people who understand what you are going through and, best of all, you will probably make some new friends!
Stay In Touch with Friends
Speaking of friends, even when you are going through cancer treatment, you should aim to make time to meet up with friends (either in-person or online) to help boost your mental health. Isolation is devastating for mental health, and by putting aside a couple of hours a week to talk about the news, your friend’s life, or even gossip about celebrities, you can really improve your well-being.
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