Ovarian Cancer: Dealing Day-to-Day
Reviewed By:
Martin E. Liebling, M.D., FACP
Living with ovarian cancer on a daily basis presents medical and emotional challenges. There is no single strategy that can help you with the disease. Everyone copes differently, and you need to find the strategies that work best for you.
- Seek help when you need it
Management of the disease and the side effects from treatment can be overwhelming. If you are having difficulties, identify the symptoms and contact your cancer care team. In many instances, these symptoms may be related to your treatment and can be effectively addressed with established techniques. It is better to seek advice rather than wait to see if the symptoms will just disappear.
Do not be afraid to seek help from different professions. Consult physicians, psychologists and professionals in alternative medicine for information. These people are trained to help you deal with your cancer. In addition, family members and friends will offer to help you in so many different ways. Accept meals when they offer to cook, or visit with them if they wish to cheer you up. Friends and family can provide a tremendous amount of support.
- Keep a positive outlook
There are several ways to maintain a positive outlook. Obtain as much information as possible about your disease. If you understand your cancer and the treatments available, you will feel more in control of your life. Seek out support groups and survivors of your type of cancer. Those who have lived with the disease can provide you with a wealth of information. Survivors can give you tips on how to cope with physical and emotional challenges.
Eliminate negativity and stress as much as possible. These elements can only work against you. Instead, find things that raise your spirits. Do your favorite things with your favorite people. This will help you maintain a positive outlook for your life.
- Maintain communication with those around you
It is very easy to fall into your own world and not share your feelings and concerns. Doing this may only isolate you from those who love you and want to lend their support. Share your thoughts, fears and hopes with your family, friends and caregivers. By talking and listening to others, you can obtain a deeper relationship and gain insight into your life.
Be sure to keep communication open with your cancer care team. They can best help you if you maintain close communication with them. If they do not know your difficulties or concerns, they cannot address the issues. Their main goal is to provide you with the best care possible. They can do this only if you are honest about your condition and you communicate your needs.
- Surround yourself with a nurturing environment
Make your home as cheerful and comforting as possible. Surround yourself with the items that bring you the most joy ‑- photographs, flowers, memoirs. These things will raise your spirits and keep you focused on the positive elements in your life. Also, have people around you that are caring, encouraging and optimistic. They can provide you with the emotional boost you need in the difficult times.
If you are a spiritual person, rely on your faith to give you strength and guidance. Spend time with people who can support you and your faith, perhaps members of the religious community. Many people find comfort in prayer or meditation. Create a place in your home where you feel you can seek solace and practice your faith.
When dealing with any serious illness, it is important for you to realize that everyone handles the situation differently. Try to find which elements give you the greatest strength and outlook. There are many resources to help you and your family deal with ovarian cancer.
Find the support you need for ovarian cancer on the iVillage Cervical & Gynecological Cancers message board.
