5 TIPS FOR NEWLY DIAGNOSED CANCER PATIENTS
Updated: Mar 9, 2023
hello there,
when i was diagnosed with cancer five years ago (omg i cant believe it's been five years!), i was desperate to try to find information to guide me through it.
5 TIPS FOR NEWLY DIAGNOSED CANCER PATIENTS
1. Keep a log/tracker of your symptoms
— even if it’s a cheap planner or calendar or notes in your phone. this will help you present how you’re feeling to your care team
2. record your appointments
— your brain tends to shut down with everything happening all at once. it can be hard to focus or process
— this can also help you play back the appointment later when you have enough energy to process
3. tackle tasks in pieces
— your body/mind will go into hyperdrive trying to tackle everything. your adrenaline kicks in and you feel “fine”
— pick 1-3 things to do and then rest. it’s frustrating but it’s better than burnout
— mental labor can be just as taxing as physical labor
4. be honest about needing help
— this can be the hardest part (it was super hard for me)
— asking for help is NOT a weakness
— people who can and want to help, will help
mental health is important too:
5. find healthy distractions
— post diagnosis, you’re either moving way too fast or you’re in a holding pattern
— find something to help your mind reset
BONUS TIP:
be kind to yourself
— this is also one of the hardest things for me to do
— you deserve kindness.
— whatever is happening to you is NOT your fault
equipment:
I usually use royalty-free music from Epidemic Sound.