This is perhaps the most neglected part of treatment. Upon diagnosis, patients are often taught about their cancer’s biology, treatment options, side effects, and symptoms, but they are rarely guided in matters of mental health. This section helps you become aware of a new aspect of your health you may not have thought of before.
Counseling
A new diagnosis can feel overwhelming for both the patient and caregiver leading to potential anxiety and depression. A qualified mental health professional with experience working with cancer patients can help.
Support Groups
Without an outlet, feelings, emotions and stress build to make you feel worse than perhaps you’d like. As mesothelioma is particularly rare, the experience you have can feel isolating and daunting. The Meso Foundation offers a full spectrum of support groups for the patient, the caregiver and the bereaved.
Meditation
As an “intentional self-regulation of attention” meditation is a practice used for relaxation of both body and mind that comes from intense concentration. A person may focus on their breath, an object or a specific word or set of words called a mantra.
Imagery
Imagery is a technique that uses the mind to influence the body. It is one of the most positive practices and creates a sense of being in control or more a part of the healing process. Patients can focus on feelings and senses to create a positive focus within their body and mind and direct that focus to further fight the disease. Some find it to be extremely calming and purposeful. It can reduce stress, depression and anxious feelings; it can help control pain and ease other side effects.
Hypnosis
Even further concentration from meditation can lead to a trace state where you are still, calm and yet still awake. This is considered begin hypnotizes. Within this state patients find peace and are able to manage pain and stress.
Spirituality
While being spiritual is mostly expressed through a specific religion, it is not always. Being aware of something bigger than yourself is considered being spiritual. Specific religions offer a community and gathering of a like-minded group. Either way you choose to participate, this method may give you new hope and a more peaceful grounded sense of self.
