Dealing with Stress Due to Lung Cancer

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Medical Video: Lung Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Staging - Joshua R. Sonett, MD

Research shows that the human mind and body are interconnected. Therefore, the stress experienced by a person will have a negative impact on mental and physical health including the lungs. Stress can cause the lungs to constrict and shortness of breath. For people with lung cancer, stress is something that cannot be avoided. Because, lung cancer can inhibit daily activities so that patients are vulnerable to stress. Through this article, we will share some tips that you can try to deal with stress and difficulty breathing.

Stress factors in patients with lung cancer

The problem commonly experienced by all lung cancer sufferers is stress. Stress is often triggered by a patient's concern about an uncertain medical condition. Besides being irritable, patients are prone to feeling scared and anxious. Most patients experience intense stress after a cancer diagnosis and during initial treatment. Signs of stress commonly experienced by patients:

  • Afraid that the treatment will not work.
  • Afraid of pain.
  • Afraid to undergo the treatment itself.
  • Anxious about changes in daily routine due to cancer
  • Worried about the reaction of family and relatives
  • Feel helpless.
  • Feel depressed about changes in various aspects during cancer treatment, for example physical changes and uncertainty about the results of treatment.

How to deal with stress

You can try some of the following tips to deal with stress.

1. Change daily habits

Take the time to do activities that you like, such as reading books, listening to music, gardening, or lying on the grass. These activities will help you balance your emotions and restore your mood. Consumption of healthy foods and adequate rest also need to be considered to restore energy while supporting the recovery process of lung cancer.

Not only that, sports are also important to do. Try a few light exercises such as walking several times a week. However, make sure you discuss with the doctor about the program and training schedule. With new and more challenging activities, your attention to anxiety can be distracted. Maybe you can try taking an art class or playing a new musical instrument.

2. Join a community

Joining in social activities is a powerful enough way to reduce stress, especially when you are socializing with family or friends. In the community for example support group for cancer, you can share your experiences, feelings and fears with others. You can also talk with friends or counselors.

3. Continue your work routine

There are times when you want to continue working after you have been diagnosed with lung cancer. Before starting to work again, discuss with your manager to avoid clashes of work schedules with treatment schedules. Ask for help and don't force yourself too hard at work.

There are many healthy ways to deal with stress. Start by observing each stress trigger factor and determine how to handle each. An easy way to deal with stress is to be a positive person and enjoy life while you can.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Dealing with Stress Due to Lung Cancer
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